bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Over‐expression of a Corn Rac Gene Induces Cardiac Hypertrophy in Old Transgenic Mice: a Putative Role of Profilin1‐Induced Signaling
Authors: Elnakish Mohammad T , Hassona Mohamed D. H. , Awad Mohamed M. , Abouelnaga Zeinb A. , Alhaj Mazin A. , Kuppusamy Periannan , Khan Mahmood , Hassanain Hamdy H.
Published: June 2021

Rac1‐GTPase activation plays a key role in the initiation of cardiac hypertrophy linking NADPH oxidase/ROS to the hypertrophic signaling cascade. Therefore, we examined the effect of over‐expression of a constitutively active form of Zea maize Rac gene (ZmRacD) on the cardiac structure and function. Echocardiography and MRI analyses showed cardiac hypertrophy in old transgenic mice as evidenced by increased left ventricular (LV) mass and LV mass/body weight ratio. LV hypertrophy in the hearts of old transgenic mice was further confirmed by histopathology analysis. The cardiac structural and functional remolding of old transgenic mice were coupled with increased myocardial Rac‐GTPase activity (315%), ROS production (301.46%) and gp91phox expression (258%). There was also an increase in the STAT3 activity (213%), profilin1 expression (427%) and α1 (223.67%) β1 (239.6%) integrins expression. This led to the activation of the hypertrophic signaling pathways e.g. ERK1/2 (273.16%) and JNK (166.75%). Furthermore, there was an increase in the myocardial expression of PAK1 (257.51%). In conclusion, ZmRacD is a novel transgenic model that develops cardiac hypertrophy with age as a result of ZmRacD‐associated superoxide production. This led to the activation of STAT3 transcription factor that up‐regulates profilin1 expression that may contribute to the development of cardiac hypertrophy in this model.
Absorption of zinc from mixed diets containing conventional or zinc‐biofortified Bangladeshi rice, or conventional Bangladeshi rice with added zinc, among young children in a peri‐urban community
Authors: Islam M Munirul , Woodhouse Leslie R , Hossain Mohammad Bakhtiar , Ahmed Tahmeed , Huda Nazmul , Ahmed Tanveer , Hotz Christine , Brown Kenneth H
Published: June 2021

Rice cultivars with higher Zinc (Zn) contents have been produced through selective breeding, and in vivo Zn bioavailability information is needed.

We measured fractional (FAZ) and total Zn absorption (TAZ) from mixed diets containing zinc‐biofortified rice (ZnBfR) compared with diets containing conventional rice (CR), with or without added Zn in children using a triple stable isotope technique. Healthy children (n=42; 36–59 mo) were recruited and divided equally into 2 groups. In a randomized 2 day cross‐over design, Group A received 150 g of ZnBfR (67Zn) for 1 day (4.97 mg total Zn intake), and 150 g CR (70Zn) on the other day (3.93 mg total Zn intake). Group B received 150 g of ZnBfR (67Zn) for 1 day, and 150 g CR (70Zn) with added ZnCl2 (CR+Zn) on the other day (5.85 mg total Zn intake). Mixed diets were served 3 times daily. 68Zn was infused intravenously at the end of day 2. Urine samples were collected on day 6–10, urinary Zn isolated and isotope ratios determined.

Preliminary data indicate that FAZ (%) was 20.9a ± 4.1, 26.4b ± 4.2 and 20.2a ± 4.2 for ZnBfR, CR and CR+Zn (p <0.05). TAZ (mg) was 1.04a ± 0.21, 1.04ab ± 0.17 and 1.18b ± 0.24 for ZnBf, CR and CR+Zn diets (p <0.05). TAZ from a ZnBfR diet is as good as a diet based on CR but the amount of increased zinc intake from the ZnBfR rice may be insufficient to enhance TAZ compared with CR at the levels of consumption studied.
Discovery of non‐oxime reactivators using an in silico pharmacophore model of reactivators for tabun‐inhibited acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Bhattacharjee Apurba Krishna , Marek Elizabeth , Le Ha Thu , Ku Therese , Gordon Richard K
Published: June 2021

We developed a rational strategy for the discovery of non‐oxime reactivators for OP inhibited AChE, which is based on our pharmacophore model (Chem Res & Toxicol 2010, 23, 26–36) of oxime reactivators for tabun inhibited AChE. We utilized the model for virtual screening of the WRAIR‐CIS database and identified several non‐oxime reactivators in an in vitro assay with DFP‐inhibited eel AChE. The model contained a hydrogen bond acceptor and a hydrogen bond donor site at the two terminal regions, and an aromatic ring in the central region of the non‐oximes. Quantum chemically calculated stereoelectronic properties were found to be consistent with the model. The identified non‐oximes were down selected on the basis of fit score to the pharmacophore, conformational energy for the fit, favorable in silico blood brain barrier penetrability, log P, and toxicity (LOAEL and rat oral LD50), and using an in silico 3D protein‐ligand search procedure, computing binding affinities and docking the non‐oximes to the active site of the crystal structure of tabun‐inhibited AChE (PDB# 2GYU). First, compounds were evaluated, twelve were found to have moderate to weak reactivation. After refinement, compounds were tested, five showed efficacy about 10‐fold less than 2‐PAM. We are now iteratively refining the model to optimize the discovery of novel non‐oxime reactivators. (Supported by DTRA Proposal: E0057_08_WR_C).
Evaluation of the anti‐cancer phytotherapeutic potential of Tulbaghia violacea plant
Authors: Saibu Gbemisola Morounke , Katerere David , Rees Jasper , Meyer Mervin
Published: June 2021

A number of drugs that are currently used in the treatment of cancer were originally identified from natural products. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti‐cancer activity of extracts of Tulbaghia violacea that has traditionally been used to treat cancer. A panel of human cancer cell lines, which included HepG2, MCF7, H157, HT29 and non cancerous cell line KMST6, were treated with aqueous and organic extracts. Induction of apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry using several bioassays. The bioassays showed that the bioactivity of the leave‐extract was significantly higher in comparison to the tuber‐extract. The highest apoptotic activities were demonstrated in the HT29 and MCF7 cell lines. A comparison of the different organic extracts from the leaves showed that the Dichloromethane and hexane extracts had the highest bioactivity. The Dichloromethane extract was subjected to versaflash column chromatography and the bioactivity of the sub‐fractions were also tested. One of these sub‐fractions showed high bioactivity. TLC analysis showed that this sub‐fraction contained a single compound. NMR and mass spectrometry analysis was used to characterize this compound. This study shows that the leaves of T.violacea contain compound(s) with pro‐apoptotic activity. This study supports the claims that this plant can be used to treat cancer.
Trypanosoma cruzi regulates the defensin alpha‐1 interactome network and defensin alpha‐1 causes trypanosome membrane pore formation to control the early process of infection
Authors: Furtak Vyacheslav , Kleshchenko Yuliya , Nde Pius , Pratap Siddarth , Johnson Candice , Madison Nia , Lima Maria , Villalta Fernando
Published: June 2021

The interactome networks of innate immune molecules operating in the early process of Trypanosoma cruzi infection of human cells are unknown. Here we show that T. cruzi regulates the defensin alpha‐1 interactome network and that human defensin alpha‐1 plays a fundamental role in the initiation of cellular responses to T. cruzi. We demonstrate that human epithelial cells respond to early T. cruzi infection by up‐regulating the expression and secretion of defensin alpha‐1, which causes trypanosome membrane pore formation and depolarization to inhibit T. cruzi motility which prevents cellular infection. The pores formed in the flagellar membrane of the invasive trypanosomes by defensin alpha‐1 cause the detachment of the flagellum from the trypanosome body to abolish trypanosome motility, which is required for trypanosome cell entry. This is the first report elucidating the defensin alpha‐1 interactome network and showing that defensin alpha‐1 disrupts the T. cruzi flagellum to compromise trypanosome motility and prevent cellular infection. Thus, defensin alpha‐1 possesses remarkably distinct modes of activity against protozoan parasites than bacteria and viruses, and its action may provide insights for the development of new anti‐trypanosomal strategies.

This work was supported by NIH grants AI AI080580 and AI007281.
BINDING AND KINETIC ANALYSIS SUPPORT AN UNEXPECTED MECHANISM OF CATALYSIS BY DXP SYNTHASE
Authors: Mott Jessica
Published: June 2021

The unique methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway for isoprenoid biosynthesis is essential in most human pathogens, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The first enzyme in this pathway, 1‐deoxy‐D‐xylulose 5‐phosphate (DXP) synthase, catalyzes the thiamin diphosphate (ThDP)‐dependent formation of DXP from D‐glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate (GAP) and pyruvate. This enzyme is mechanistically and structurally distinct from other ThDP‐dependent enzymes and is a potential drug target for the development of new anti‐infective agents. Toward our long‐term goal to target non‐mammalian isoprenoid biosynthesis, we have conducted mechanistic studies of DXP synthase. Here, we present the results of detailed kinetic analysis and substrate binding studies. Our work suggests a novel, random sequential mechanism of catalysis for DXP synthase.
Pho13 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a Member of the p‐Nitrophenyl Phosphatase Family of the HAD Superfamily is a Phosphoglycolate Phosphatase
Authors: O'Handley Suzanne , Blake Kimbria , Puts Regina , Patron Alejandra Rizo , Ramirez Sebastian , Strassner Amanda , Wahler Brandon , Walling Megan
Published: June 2021

The nitrophenyl phosphatase family of the Haloacid Dehalogenase superfamily is a diverse family of proteins consisting of pyridoxal phosphatases from P. thiaminolyticus and humans, a UMPase (NAGD) from E. coli, phosphoglycolate phosphatases from S. aureus and algae, and a number of putative proteins. Homologs in the yeasts, S. cerevisiae and S. pombe, were only known to hydrolyze p‐nitrophenyl phosphate, a non‐natural substrate. Through bioinformatics analyses we noticed that the homolog in S. cerevisiae, Pho13 was most similar to the algae phosphoglycolate phosphatase. We cloned and overexpressed this enzyme and upon testing determined that Pho13 is a phosphoglycolate phosphatase as we predicted. The role of phosphoglycolate phosphatases in the Calvin cycle in photosynthetic organisms is well understood; its role in nonphotosynthetic organisms is less certain, however the phosphoglycolate phosphatase from S. aureus is a virulence factor, thus the phosphoglycolate phosphatases appear to carry out different but equally important cellular roles in nonphotosynthetic organisms as well. Enzymatic characterization and crystal growth for structural determination are in progress.
Osmolyte‐induced folding of an intrinsically disordered transactivation function domain of the Glucocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Khan Shagufta H , Kumar Raj
Published: June 2021

To initiate transcription of target gene(s), the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) interacts with its response element DNA, and/or with coregulatory proteins. However, specific interaction surfaces of GR with its coregulators are not well understood. Consequently, precisely how transcription is regulated by GR is largely unknown. This is due, in part, to the lack of structural information about GR's major activation function region, AF1, which exists in an intrinsically disordered (ID) conformation. It is believed that ID nature of AF1 promotes molecular recognition by creating large interaction surfaces suitable for interactions with its coregulatory proteins. It has been hypothesized that conditional folding of AF1 domain may be a prerequisite for their efficient interaction with specific coregulatory proteins, and subsequent transcriptional activity leading to the regulation of target gene(s). In this study, we tested whether naturally occurring osmolytes can promote functionally ordered conformation in the GR's AF1 domain. Our data show that AF1 adopts a functionally active ordered conformation in the presence of osmolyte such that AF1's interaction with specific coregulatory proteins and its subsequent transcriptional activity is significantly enhanced. Our results may provide a mechanism by which AF1 mediates the target‐specific gene regulation by GR. Supported by a grant from NIH (DK058829).
Cognitive function in Chilean elderly with low B12 and high folate status
Authors: Allen Lindsay Helen , Sanchez Hugo , Albala Cecilia , Hertrampf Eva , Lera Lydia , Lavados Manuel , Castillo JL , Shahab‐Ferdows Setareh , Uauy Ricardo
Published: June 2021

Other investigators reported an association between low vitamin B12 and higher folate status with poorer cognitive function, raising concern about folic acid fortification for elderly. The objective was to examine these associations in elderly at risk of B12 deficiency and consuming highly fortified flour (2.2 mg folic acid/kg flour). Subjects aged 70–79 y were randomly selected from 15 health centers. Screening identified exclusions; serum B‐12 >700 pmol/L, MiniMental State Exam (MMSE) <20, diabetes, health problems. Cognitive tests were administered to 311 eligible subjects. Overall 30% were B12 deficient and 25% B12 marginal (<148 and 148–220 pmol/L); 18% had high serum folate (≥42 nmol/L). Depression (GDS‐15 ≥5) affected 30%, sig. more in women, B12 deficiency, and high folate (p=0.03) but without B12‐folate interaction. MMSE <25 pcle was unrelated to B12 or folate but there was sig. interaction (p<0.055) between B12 ≤148 pmol/L and folate ≥42 nmol/L controlling for depression and education (n=9). Language (Boston) was poorer with high folate, and verbal memory (CERAD) with B‐12 deficiency (no interaction). No associations were found with working memory, attention, executive function. We conclude B12 and folate status were independently associated with some cognitive performance scores. Only MMSE revealed an interaction but significance was weak and sample size small. Funded by FONDECYT 1070592.
Food preparation methods among African American churchgoers in Baltimore, MD and their associations with body mass index (BMI) and food purchasing behaviors
Authors: Budd Nadine , Surkan Pamela , Martins Paula , Rowan Megan , Flamm Laura , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Healthy Bodies Healthy Souls is a diabetes prevention program, which aims to increase physical activity, access to healthy foods, and healthy food preparation methods among urban African American (AA) churchgoers. Food purchasing and preparation methods were assessed among AA church members (n=136) from 6 churches in Baltimore City. Pan‐frying in fat was the most frequently used preparation method (17.6%). There was no correlation between BMI and unhealthy cooking methods (deep‐fried, pan‐fried in fat, broiled, baked, or grilled with fat) or healthy cooking methods (pan‐fried without fat, boiled or steamed without added fat, cooked with cooking spray, raw). There was a significant positive association between BMI and total preparation frequency of grouped foods (potatoes, leafy greens, chicken, ground beef, fish, eggs) (r =.173, p =.043) and with total beef preparation frequency (r = .224, p =.008). Total frequency of at‐home food preparation was positively correlated with frequency of unhealthy food purchasing (r =.402, p <0.001). Results suggest that the frequency of home food preparation and types of foods prepared, regardless of preparation methods used, play a role in determining BMI among this population. Efforts to encourage home meal preparation as a means of reducing the obesity epidemic must be accompanied by initiatives to improve cooking methods.

Grant Funding Source: The American Diabetes Association
The effects of whey protein supplementation and exercise on bone in overweight/obese middle‐aged adults
Authors: McMorrow Aoibheann M , Weinheimer Eileen M , Conley Travis B , Kobza Vanessa M , Sands Laura P , Lim Eunjung , Janle Elsa M , Campbell Wayne W
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To investigate the effects of whey protein (WP) supplementation and exercise training on bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC).

Methods

In this double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, community‐based 9‐month trial, 108 females (49±7 y, 30.1±2.9 kg/m2) and 78 males (49±8 y, 30.4±2.7 kg/m2) consumed 200 kcal supplements with 0 (n=68), 10 (n=71), 20 (n=21), or 30g (n=26) WP twice daily. All subjects performed resistance (2 d/wk) and aerobic (1 d/wk) exercise during the 9‐month intervention. DXA measurements were made pre, mid and post intervention.

Results

Over time (i.e. with exercise) total body and total femur BMD were unchanged. Femoral neck BMD decreased (−0.15±1.08%, P=0.044) independent of sex. Spine BMD decreased in women (−1.08±2.60%, P<0.001) and trended higher in men (0.52±2.83%, P=0.053) (sex × time P=0.001). In women, BMC decreased in the total body (−0.29±1.14%, P=0.001) and trended lower in the spine (−0.76±3.94%, P=0.074), while there were no significant changes in men (sex × time P=0.02). WP supplementation, regardless of dose, did not influence these responses (WP × time P>0.05).

Conclusion

Whey protein supplementation did not influence the bone mass of weight‐stable, middle‐aged overweight/obese men and women who completed a 9‐month exercise program.

Support: US Whey Protein Research Consortium; NIH T32AG025671 and UL1 RRO25761, Purdue Ingest. Behav. Res. Ctr.
Role of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in Adipogenesis in Senescent Preadipocytes
Authors: Chen Chih‐Yu , Moon Yang Soo , Kim Kee‐Hong
Published: June 2021

Obesity contributes to the development of metabolic syndromes and accelerates to onset of multiple aging‐related disorders. Adipogenesis is the main process to increase not only lipid accumulation, but also elevate inflammation and oxidative stress. Within aging, preadipocyte capacity to replicate and differentiate declines. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), through its receptor (RAGE), have been shown to be implicated to aging‐associated chronic diseases. The inhibition of the AGE‐RAGE interaction has been proposed as a target to treat or prevent these diseases; however the role of AGE‐RAGE axis in obesity has not been delineated. The objective of this study was to characterize the function of AGE‐RAGE axis in adipogenic capacity of senescent 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. We found that the high passage preadipocytes (HPP) (more than 15 passages) exhibited the elevated levels of replicative senescent markers, including upregulation of tumor suppressor protein 53, interleukin‐6 levels and beta‐galactosidase activity compared to low passage cells (equals to or less than 5 passages). Additionally, HPP had reduction of insulin sensitivity and adipogenic ability. Interestingly, HPP treated with AGEs restored adipogenic capacity assessed by Oil Red O staining and increased adipogenic gene expression such as peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma, CAATT/enhancer binding protein alpha, and fatty acid synthase. Moreover, AGE‐stimulated adipogenesis in HPP is related to increased RAGE protein expression. We further demonstrated that the blockage of RAGE by a neutralizing antibody blunted the pro‐adipogenic function of AGEs. Taken together, our results suggest that AGEs induce adipogenesis in a RAGE‐dependent manner in senescent preadipocytes.

Grant Funding Source: Scholarship from the Ministry of Education of Taiwan
Tacrolimus and Rapamycin do not elevate cholesterol synthesis in post‐transplant patients, but may impair response to multi‐nutrient dietary intervention
Authors: Lambert Jennifer E , Ryan Edmond A , Thomson Alan BR , Clandinin Michael T
Published: June 2021

Patients frequently experience hypercholesterolemia after transplant due to immunosuppressive drugs. Mechanisms responsible for this rise in plasma cholesterol are not clear. Dietary therapy is usually not sufficient to reduce plasma cholesterol post‐transplant, however these interventions may be limited in scope. The purpose of this study was to investigate cholesterol synthesis as a possible mechanism for hypercholesterolemia in post‐transplant patients, and test the efficacy of a multi‐faceted dietary intervention. Islet (ITx; n=8) and liver (LTx; n=7) post‐transplant patients on Tacrolimus (Tac) or Rapamycin (Rapa) were recruited with normal control subjects (Ctl; n=9) to measure 24h cholesterol fractional synthesis (FSR‐C) using deuterium. A subset of patients underwent a 4‐week dietary intervention using fish oil, phytosterols, soy, and fibers. FSR‐C was not different between Ctl, ITx and LTx groups. Diet intervention significantly lowered plasma cholesterol and triglyceride in Ctl, however was not effective in ITx or LTx. Diet produced mixed results in changes in FSR‐C across groups. In conclusion, hyperlipidemia caused by Tac or Rapa may not be due to elevated cholesterol synthesis. However, these drugs may interfere with normal responses to hypolipidemic dietary therapy effective in non‐transplant populations.

Grant Funding Source: Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Impairment of endothelial function despite improvements in traditional lipid markers in low‐carbohydrate vs. high‐carbohydrate, high‐fiber diet in adults with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Gaesser Glenn , Angadi Siddhartha , Weltman Nathan , Rodriguez Jessica , Patrie James , Barrett Eugene , Brock David , Davis Christopher , Irving Brian , Weltman Arthur
Published: June 2021

Twenty‐three adults (17 females) with the metabolic syndrome (IDF Criteria) participated in this randomized, single‐blind, crossover study to determine the effects of a low‐carbohydrate diet (LC: 15–20% carbohydrate (fiber ≤ 10 g/day), 55–60% fat, 25–30% protein) and a high‐carbohydrate, high‐fiber diet (HCHF: 55–60% carbohydrate (fiber ~45g/day), 20–25% fat,15–20% protein) on serum lipids and vascular endothelial function (brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation; BAFMD). Diets were ad libitum and lasted 4 weeks, with 4‐week washout. Significant decreases (p<0.05) in VLDL (−7.5 ± 10.6 mg/dl), triglycerides (−59.7 ± 73.2 mg/dl) and non‐HDL (−10.5 ± 22.7 mg/dl) were observed after LC while HCHF resulted in significant decreases in total Cholesterol (−13.2 ± 21.9 mg/dl), HDL (−3.9 ± 5.5 mg/dl), and non‐HDL (−9.2 ± 19.9 mg/dl). A strong trend for reduced BAFMD was observed after LC (10.1 ± 1.4% vs. 7.2 ± 1.1%; p=0.06), while BAFMD remained unchanged after HCHF (9.5 ± 1.3% vs. 10.4 ± 1.5%; p=0.61). A significant diet interaction was observed for changes in BAFMD (p=0.01). Despite improvements in fasting lipids following LC, endothelial function was impaired in comparison to the HCHF diet. Traditional fasting lipid markers may not accurately reflect the dysmetabolic setting that results in endothelial dysfunction following a LC diet in adults with metabolic syndrome.

Funding: NIH RR MO100847; Wheat Foods Council
Moderate NaFeEDTA supplementation improves both hematologic status and oxidative stress in anemic pregnant women
Authors: Han Xiu xia , Sun Yong Y , Ma Ai G , Jiang Dian C , Li Yong
Published: June 2021

Iron is not only an important nutrient and indicator for anemia, but also a cofactor of many enzymes in antioxidant process. We evaluated the effect of sodium iron EDTA (NaFeEDTA) and ferrous sulfate on iron bioavailability and oxidative stress in anemic pregnant women. In this randomized controlled trial, 153 anemic pregnant women, with 80¡Ý Hb <110 g/L, were randomly allocated to three groups (n=51/group): group C (placebo control), group I (supplemented daily with 60 mg iron as ferrous sulfate, and group IE (daily60 mg iron as NaFeEDTA). After 2‐mo supplementation, the changes in placebo group were −3.64 g/L in Hb, −1.23 ¦Ìmol/L in plasma iron, and −1.59 ¦Ìg/L in ferritin compared with their baselines. Compared with the C group, significant increases were 20.54 and 21.84 g/L for Hb; 4.81 and 7.19 ¦Ìmol/L for plasma iron; 2.63 and 8.99 ¦Ìg/L for ferritin; and 32.60 and 75.31 IU/ml in GSH‐Px activities; MDA levels decreased by 0.702 and 1.115 ¦Ìmol/L in I and IE groups, respectively. Moreover, differences of plasma iron, ferritin and GSH‐Px activity were 2.38 ¦Ìmol/L, 6.63 ¦Ìg/L and 42.71 IU/ml, which was significantly greater in IE than in I group. In conclusion, iron deficiency among pregnant women untreated in the middle trimester of pregnancy might deteriorate in the third trimester; NaFeEDTA has a greater efficacy compared with ferrous sulfate. Supported by Danone Nutrition Institute China.
Household Animal Production and Meat Consumption in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Lewis Bess L , Arsenault Joanne E , Yakes Elizabeth A , Hossain Md Bakhtiar , Islam Md Munirul , Ahmed Tahmeed , Haskell Marjorie J , Jarvis Lovell S , Brown Kenneth H
Published: June 2021

Promotion of household (HH) animal production has been suggested as a strategy to improve diet quality among undernourished, rural populations by increasing meat consumption. This study examines the relationships between animal production and HH‐level meat consumption among 360 HHs with young children in rural Bangladesh. HH consumption of different types of meat and fish was modeled as a function of demographic and socio‐economic factors and animal production. Consumption of each type of meat among producers of the corresponding animal was modeled as a function of socio‐economic and demographic factors and descriptors of animal production. 85% of HHs produced at least one type of animal, including chicken (62%), cows (41%) and fish (37%). 81% of HHs consumed some meat or fish on the days of observation, but the quantities consumed were low (mdn 59 g/capita, IQR 113 g/capita). Adjusting for other HH traits, fish production was positively associated with fish consumption (p=0.05), but there were no significant relationships between production and consumption for other types of animal. HH wealth and the type of animal produced are related to meat consumption among animal producing HHs. With the possible exception of fish production, promoting animal production in rural Bangladesh may not be an effective means of increasing meat consumption. Research supported by the HarvestPlus Challenge Program.
Carotenoids and Apocarotenals in the Dorsal Fin of Mosquito Fish
Authors: Landrum John T. , Mendez Vanesa , Baez Ian , Giery Sean , Layman Craig
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Mosquitofish from The Bahamas, Gambusia hubbsi, and south Florida, Gambusia rhyzophorae, were observed to exhibit yellow‐orange coloration in their dorsal fins. Extracts from dorsal fins were analyzed by HPLC and a number of the pigments have been identified as carotenoids or carotenoid derived species.

Methods

Dorsal fins were extracted with hexane/acetone and the resulting solution concentrated under nitrogen. Extracts were analyzed by resolution in methanol/acetonitrile and chromatography using reversed phase C‐18 HPLC coupled with UV/visible detection at 450 nm was used to separate the components.

Results

Analysis of extracts obtained from dorsal fins of 3–5 animals provided sufficient amounts of pigment for HPLC detection. Typical extracts are dominated by polar components and include lutein, epoxy carotenoids, and apo‐carotenals. In several samples a component was detected that exhibits a spectrum consistent with 3‐hydroxy‐10’‐apo‐carotenal.

Conclusion

Presence of 3‐hydroxy‐10’‐apo‐carotenal in the dorsal fins of mosquitofish appears to be consistent with CMO2 (carotenoid monooxygenase II) expression and carotenoid cleavage in the tissue. The function 3‐hydroxy‐10’‐apo‐carotenal may have in the fin is not immediately apparent but its unique presence suggests that it has an important role.
Antioxidant intakes are lower in older adults with depression
Authors: Payne Martha E , Steck Susan E , Steffens David C
Published: June 2021

Objective

To examine the cross‐sectional associations between depression and intakes of antioxidants, fruits and vegetables in a cohort of older adults.

Methods

Antioxidant, fruit and vegetable intakes were assessed in 288 elderly subjects (150 with depression, 138 without depression) using a Block 1998 food frequency questionnaire. Subjects were age 60 or over.

Results

Vitamin C, lutein and cryptoxanthin intakes were significantly lower among depressives than in comparison subjects (p<0.05). In addition, fruit and vegetable consumption, a primary determinant of antioxidant intake, was lower in depressed individuals. In multivariable models, controlling for age, sex, education, vascular comorbidity score, body mass index, total dietary fat, and alcohol, vitamin C, cryptoxanthin, fruits and vegetables remained significant. Antioxidants from dietary supplements were not associated with depression.

Conclusions

Antioxidant, fruit and vegetable intakes were lower in individuals with late‐life depression than in comparison subjects. These associations may partially explain the elevated risk of cardiovascular disease among older depressed individuals. In addition, these findings point to the importance of antioxidant food sources rather than dietary supplements.

This project was funded by a NARSAD Young Investigator Award and the following NIMH grants: MH54846, MH60451 and MH70027.
Retention and bioaccessibility of B‐carotene (BC) in biofortified cassava
Authors: Failla Mark L. , Chitchumroonchokchai Chureeporn , Siritunga Dimuth , de Moura Fabiana F. , Fregene Martin , Sayre Richard
Published: June 2021

Cassava root represents a primary caloric source for many rural African communities despite its very low content of βC. Roots from wild type (WT, 0.9 μg βC/g DW) and transgenic lines with increased βC (22, 29 and 30 μg βC/g DW) were cooked according to traditional styles to assess retention. Mean relative retention of βC in root from biofortified lines after boiling (86%) and in fufu (wet fermentation + boiling; 93%) exceeded that for boiled WT cassava (67%) and WT fufu (83%). In contrast, retention of βC in gari (dry fermentation + roasting) was only 28% for both WT and transgenic cassava. Bioaccessibility of βC in cooked cassava was determined by simulated digestion. Efficiency of βC micellarization during digestion of WT boiled root, fufu and gari was 27, 31 and 28%, respectively, whereas micellarization during digestion of biofortified boiled root, fufu and gari was 34, 39 and 36%, respectively (p<0.05). Caco‐2 cells were used to confirm the accessibility of micellarized βC. Apical uptake of micellar βC (as %) was independent of genotype and style of cooking. βC content in Caco‐2 cells incubated with micelles prepared from the biofortified cassava was approx. 65 times greater than in cells exposed to micelles generated during digestion of similarly cooked WT cassava. These results suggest that retention during cooking and bioaccessibility of βC in biofortified cassava root are proportionally greater than that in WT roots.

Supported by the Ohio Agriculture Research And Development Center.
Reduction in DSS‐induced enhancement of colonic injury and NF‐κB activation in rats consuming a diet containing black sorghum bran
Authors: Ritchie Lauren Elizabeth , Carroll R J , Weeks B R , McDonough C M , Dykes L , Rooney L W , Turner N D
Published: June 2021

We have shown that sorghum bran diets containing bioactive compounds decrease colon carcinogenesis and the mechanisms involved may prove beneficial against chronic colon inflammation. To test this, rats (n=80) were provided diets containing 6% fiber from cellulose, or bran from black, sumac, or high tannin sorghum, which contain anthocyanins, condensed tannins, or both, respectively. Ten rats in each diet received 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) three times to stimulate inflammation. Feces were collected throughout the study, and on day 63 the colon was resected and distal segments were used to determine inflammation and injury scores. The colonic mucosa was scraped to measure NF‐κB activity. DSS elevated injury score and NF‐κB activity for all rats. Fecal moisture content and injury scores of DSS rats were higher in animals fed bran diets (9–13% and ~39%, respectively) compared to a cellulose diet (p<0.05 for both), but were lower than rats fed a pectin diet. When the relationship between changes in injury and NF‐κB within each diet was assessed, a linear relationship (p=0.01, R2=0.98) was observed, with the black bran diet resulting in the lowest value. Consumption of black sorghum bran may reduce colonic injury and induction of NF‐κB activity caused during inflammation, which may contribute to the reduction in colon carcinogenesis observed previously. Funding: United Sorghum Checkoff Board Roo31A‐09.
Oral administration of piceatannol inhibits the lung metastasis of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Kwon GyooTaik , Jung JaeIn , Park Jung Han Yoon
Published: June 2021

Piceatannol (trans‐3,4,3′,5′‐tetrahydroxystilbene) is a polyphenol detected in grapes, red wine, and Rheum undulatum; it has been demonstrated to exert anticarcinogenic effects. In this study, in order to determine whether piceatannol inhibits the lung metastasis of prostate cancer cells, MAT‐Ly‐Lu (MLL) rat prostate cancer cells expressing luciferase were injected into the tail veins of male nude mice. The oral administration of piceatannol (20 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the accumulation of MLL cells in the lungs of these mice. In the cell culture studies, piceatannol was demonstrated to inhibit the basal and EGF‐induced migration and invasion of DU145 human prostate cancer cells. Piceatannol attenuated the mRNA levels and secretion of MMP‐9, uPA and VEGF and increased the protein levels of TIMP‐2 in a concentration‐dependent fashion. Additionally, piceatannol inhibited the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3. Furthermore, piceatannol effected reductions in both basal and EGF‐induced IL‐6 secretion. An IL‐6 neutralizing antibody inhibited EGF‐induced STAT3 phosphorylation and EGF‐stimulated migration of DU145 cells. These results demonstrate that the inhibition of IL‐6/STAT3 signaling may constitute a mechanism by which piceatannol regulates the expression of proteins involved in regulating the migration and invasion of DU145 cells.
Notch‐1 down‐regulation by delta‐tocotrienol is associated with the inhibition of cell growth and the induction of apoptosis in non‐small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Ji Xiangming , Geamanu Andreea , Gupta Smiti V.
Published: June 2021

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death among all the cancers. Non‐small cell lung cancer accounts for 80% of lung cancer with a five‐year survival rate of 16%. Notch pathway, especially Notch‐1 is upregulated in a subgroup of Non‐small cell lung cancer patients. Since Notch‐1 signaling plays an important role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, down‐regulation of Notch‐1 may exert anti‐tumor effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of delta‐tocotrienol on non‐small cell lung cancer cell lines (A549, H1299) via Notch signaling. Treatment with delta‐tocotrienol resulted in a dose and time dependent inhibition of cell growth (p<0.05), cell migration, tumor cell invasiveness, and induction of apoptosis (p<0.05). Western blot analysis showed that apoptosis induced by delta‐tocotrienol was associated with decrease in Notch‐1, Hes‐1, Survivin, and BCX‐XL expression. This was confirmed by real‐time PCR by a decrease in the gene expression of Notch1, Hes‐1, MMP‐9, and VEGF was observed. In addition, this was accompanied with a decrease in NF‐κB‐DNA binding activity. These results suggest that down‐regulation of Notch‐1, especially by delta‐tocotrienol could provide a novel approach for the prevention of tumor progression, which is likely to be mediated via downregulation of NF‐κB signaling pathways in Non‐small cell lung cancer.

Grant Funding Source: Across Societies (EB)
Differential Response of Salivary Gland Cell Types to Gamma‐tocopherol Treatments
Authors: Gerber Leonard E. , Jackson Cynthia L. , Cha Chung J , Gnepp Douglas R.
Published: June 2021

Recently we have reported that gamma‐tocopherol had a growth‐suppressing effect upon ACC3 salivary tumor cells in culture and that the likely mechanism involved an apoptotic death of tumor cells. The current research was designed to accomplish two goals: 1) Is this effect specific to salivary gland tumor cells; and, 2) What are the phenotypic characteristics of the ACC3 cell line as well as the non‐tumor cell line known as M1, which is also derived from salivary gland cells. Our results indicate that the growth suppressive effect does not occur when the M1 cells are treated with gamma‐tocopherol. In addition, ACC3 and M1 cells were examined histologically to confirm the cellular origin of the cells. Both cell lines were analyzed by staining with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) as well as immunohistochemically for several extracellular matrix markers. Strong staining was detected with antibodies directed against cytokeratins. Specifically, an antibody directed against a mixture of cytokeratins as well as an antibody directed against cytokeratin 7, exhibited strong staining.
Effects of Daidzein and Vincristine on Medulloblastoma Cell Proliferation
Authors: Stout Jessica Mae , Sierman Audrey R , Cheatwood Joseph Laton
Published: June 2021

Medulloblastoma – the most common type of childhood brain cancer – is a malignant tumor of the cerebellum that can spread throughout the central nervous system. Currently, the primary treatment for MB patients is chemotherapy, but its use is limited due to its negative side effects, which include cognitive and neurological dysfunctions, growth impairment of the brain, and immune system compromise. Previous studies with the isoflavone genistein determined that a diet high in soy could potentially reduce the amount of chemotherapy drugs necessary to treat MB, which would consequently reduce the risk of harmful side effects while maintaining or improving disease control. Unlike genistein, daidzein – another key soy isoflavone with high bioavailability – has not been studied. Therefore, we sought to detail the effects of vincristine coupled with daidzein on MB cell lines. For this, HTB‐186 cells were treated with daidzein and varied concentrations of vincristine. Cells in all treatment groups were incubated for 1 week. After the study period, the viable cells in each group were enumerated via a dye exclusion assay.

Grant Funding Source: Saluki Scholars Research Opportunity
Development and validation of a spectrophotometric method for simple quantification of total glucosinolates in cruciferous vegetables
Authors: Gallaher Cynthia M. , Gallaher Daniel D. , Peterson Sabrina
Published: June 2021

Given their putative role in chemoprevention, there is an acknowledged need for validated methods for quantification of total glucosinolates in cruciferous vegetables. Based on the ferricyanide reaction with the 1‐thioglucose alkaline degradation product of glucosinolates described by Jezek et al. (J Agric Food Chem 47, 4669), we have developed a more simple and sensitive method for extraction and spectrophotometric quantification of total glucosinolates in various cruciferous vegetables. After shock freezing in liquid nitrogen, lyophilized and ground vegetables are treated with 80% boiling methanol to deactivate myrosinase and extract glucosinolates. Glucosinolates are then eluted through a strong anion exchange extraction cartridge, followed by treatment with 2N NaOH to release 1‐thioglucose. After addition of ferricyanide, absorption is measured at 420 nm and final values are adjusted for interfering compounds. Recovery of a sinigrin internal standard was 80%. The intra‐assay coefficient of variation was 7.9%. Linearity in dose response was observed with both internal standard (R2 = 0.99) and amount of plant material extracted (R2 = 0.99). Using sinigrin, the lower limit of detection was 0.1 μm/mL. This straightforward method may serve as an alternative to more time‐consuming and costly chromatographic methods. Support: Healthy Foods, Healthy Lives Institute.
Echinacea purpurea flower extracts and cichoric acid inhibit growth of HCT‐116 cells through downregulation of hTERT mRNA expression, telomerase activity and induces G1 cell cycle arrest
Authors: Tsai Yu‐Ling , Chan Kung‐Chi , Chiu Chien‐Chih , Lin Sheng‐Dun
Published: June 2021

This study evaluated the effects of ethanol and extraction temperature on the quality of freeze‐dried Echinacea purpurea flowers. The inhibitory effects of flower extract and cichoric acid on human colonic HCT‐116 cancer cells growth were also examined. The optimal extraction conditions for freeze‐dried flowers were 50% ethanol and 65¢XC extraction temperature, with extraction yield of 37.4%. Total phenolics, total caffeic acid derivatives, and cichoric acid contents in freeze‐dried extracts were 473.34, 302.20 and 217.61 mg/g, respectively. MTT (3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay showed that the growth of HCT‐116 cells was inhibited by flower extract and cichoric acid in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners. Cichoric acid treatment also inhibited the expression of hTERT mRNA and telomerase activity. Cytometric analyses showed that cichoric acid caused G1‐phase arrest within 24–48 h. Thus, the 50% ethanol extract of Echinacea purpurea flowers and cichoric acid could be used as a potential therapeutic agent against colon cancer.
Association of supermarket availability, accessibility and utilization with dietary intake
Authors: Liese Angela Dorothea , Colabianchi Natalie , Hibbert James , Nichols Michele , Freedman Darcy
Published: June 2021

We aimed to evaluate whether supermarket availability and accessibility is associated with dietary intake using validated food retail locations and information about utilization of the food environment. We interviewed 876 household food shoppers in South Carolina assessing diet with the 17‐item NCI screener. Supermarket/grocery store (SUP/GS) locations were verified. Availability, accessibility measures, and distance to utilized store were assessed relative to home address. Only 16% of respondents had a SUP/GS in their neighborhood. Respondents drove 9 miles to shop for food (median 7.8), 3.8 in urban and 10.6 miles in non‐urban areas. The closest SUP/GS was on average 5.7 miles away (median 5; urban 2, non‐urban 6.8 miles). No associations were observed between availability of SUP/GS and fruit and vegetable (F&V) (p=0.48), fiber (p=0.66), or percent fat intake (p= 0.24), adjusted for demographics, socio‐economics, rurality. Similarly, none of the measures of accessibility were associated with diet. However, distance to utilized store was significantly inversely associated with F&V (p=0.02), but not with fat or fiber. While our study does not support previous findings on the impact of SUP/GS availability and accessibility on diet, it does suggest that spatial attributes of actual food shopping behavior may contribute to dietary intake. Funded by National Cancer Institute R21CA132133 & R21CA132133‐02S1
Konjac glucomannan ameliorated high fat‐induced oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Wu Wen‐Tzu Irene , Chen Hsiao‐Ling
Published: June 2021

The aim of study was to determine ameliorative effects of konjac glucomannan (KGM), a viscous dietary fiber, on oxidative stress in Sprague‐Dawley rats fed a high‐fat fiber‐free diet. Six‐week‐old rats (n=8/group) were fed a normal‐fat (5% corn oil, w/w) fiber‐free, or high‐fat (25%, w/w) diets containing no fiber, KGM (5%, w/w) or inulin (5%, w/w, as a prebiotic control) for 4 weeks. The DNA damage of lymphocytes was determined by comet assay. In addition, lymphocytes were treated with formamidopyrimidine DNA‐glycosylase (FPG, 1 μg/mL) to determine its ability to defend oxidative stress. Plasma antioxidants and the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the plasma, liver and colon were also determined. Results indicated that the high‐fat fiber‐free diet significantly elevated lymphocyte DNA damage and MDA levels in the liver and colon, with a decrease in the plasma α‐tocopherol levels, as compared with its low‐fat counterpart. Incorporation of either KGM or inulin into the high‐fat fiber‐free diet significantly reduced the lymphocytes DNA damage and FPG‐induced lesion, and liver MDA levels. Furthermore, KGM and inulin significantly reduced the MDA level in the distal and proximal colon, respectively. Therefore, the present study suggests that KGM reduced oxidative stress caused by high‐fat diet in rats. This study was supported by the National Science Council Grant NSC‐99‐2320‐B‐040‐014‐MY2, Taipei, Taiwan.
Metabolic syndrome and its components impairs health‐related quality of life among US children and adults similarly regardless of sociodemographic characteristics
Authors: Chen Xiaoli , Wang Youfa
Published: June 2021

We examined the associations of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components with health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in US children and adults using the 2001–08 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data for 9849 participants aged 12–84 years with complete needed information. MetS was classified based on lab tests using the International Diabetes Federation criteria. HRQOL was assessed with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) HRQOL‐4 scale (includes measures such as overall, physical, mental QOL). Multivariate logistic regression models tested the associations with adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics. Subjects with MetS were 2–3 times more likely to have low overall HRQOL, odds ratio (OR) was 2.74 (95%CI: 1.83–4.11) for children and 2.59 (95% CI: 2.23–3.01) for adults. Similar results were found for all five components of MetS including abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, high blood pressure, and hyperglycemia with HRQOL. The significant MetS‐HRQOL associations did not differ across sex, race, education, and income (all Pinteraction>0.05). In conclusion, Americans with MetS and its components have worse health‐related quality of life than others. The association varies little by sociodemographic characteristics.
The effect in humans of ingesting different dietary proteins on plasma tryptophan, tyrosine, and the amino acid ratios that predict their brain uptake
Authors: FERNSTROM JOHN D. , LANGHAM KATHRYN A. , MARCELINO LYNDSEY M. , FERNSTROM MADELYN H. , KAYE WALTER H.
Published: June 2021

Overnight‐fasted healthy males (n=6) with venous catheters ingested on four mornings 12oz V‐8 Juice containing 40 g of α‐lactalbumin (LAC), wheat gluten (GLUT), zein or starch. Blood was taken before ingestion and at 30 min intervals for 4 hr. Tryptophan (TRP), tyrosine (TYR) and other large neutral amino acids (LNAA) were assayed by HPLC. Predictors of brain TRP and TYR uptake (plasma TRP/∑LNAA, TYR/∑LNAA) were calculated. 0‐Time plasma TRP was ≈50 nmol/ml; TRP/∑LNAA was ≈0.010. LAC increased plasma TRP (3‐fold) and TRP/∑LNAA (50%) within 2 hr; starch did not change either TRP variable, while GLUT caused modest (25%) and zein larger reductions (50%) in both variables. The peak difference in plasma TRP/∑LNAA between LAC and zein was ≈3‐fold. Changes in TYR/∑LNAA were minimal. Plasma TRP/∑LNAA predicts brain TRP uptake and serotonin (5HT) synthesis from TRP in rats. The results thus suggest that in humans, LAC ingestion may raise and zein ingestion lower 5HT synthesis in/release by brain neurons, and perhaps produce 5HT‐mediated changes in mood and behavior.

Supported by the Peterson Foundation and the UPMC Weight Management Center.