bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Watermelon Powder Supplementation on Colonic Aberrant Crypt Foci Formation
Authors: Kalaba Milica , Klarich DawnKylee S , Hong Mee Young
Published: November 2023

Watermelon is a rich source of antioxidants and the amino acid L‐citrulline. L‐citrulline has been found to play a role in the treatment of various diseases such as pulmonary hypertension in infants and protected against kidney damage in type 1 diabetic mice. L‐citrulline is metabolized by the body into L‐arginine, which plays a role as a nitrogenous substrate responsible for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), an inorganic free radical gas at body temperature and modulator of vascular dilation. Various studies have investigated the effect of high NO levels as a cytotoxic substance towards cancer cells. Specifically, studies have examined NO in macrophage cytotoxicity. These studies state that cytokine activated rodent macrophages generate large concentrations of NO by the up‐regulation of expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase gene (iNOS). Nitric oxide generated by this process is capable of killing different tumor cells; however, few studies have examined the role of watermelon and, consequently, L‐arginine on the progression of colon cancer. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of watermelon powder consumption on the development of colon cancer by assessing aberrant crypt foci (ACF) formation, which are pre‐neoplastic lesions that are identifiable in the colon mucosa during the early progression of colon cancer. Thirty‐two male Sprague Dawley rats at 21 days old were administered either control, 0.36% L‐arginine, or 0.5% watermelon powder diets over a period of 9 weeks. The 0.5% watermelon powder diet provides 0.36% of L‐arginine+L‐citrulline. The rats were subcutaneously injected with azoxymethane, a carcinogenic agent, during weeks 3 and 4. Both L‐arginine and watermelon powder diets showed lower total number of ACF at 6.82 ± 0.75 and 4.73 ± 0.63 (mean ± standard error), respectively, compared to control group 26.50 ± 2.40 at P < 0.001. High multiplicity aberrant crypt foci (HMACF) (> 4 aberrant crypts/focus) were also lower in L‐arginine and watermelon powder diets at 1.09 ± 0.44 and 0.82 ± 0.23, respectively, than control group 8.10 ± 1.18 (P < 0.001). Lower total ACF and HMACF were also identified per centimeter of colon for L‐arginine and watermelon powder (P < 0.001). These results suggest that consumption of watermelon as a source for L‐arginine derived from L‐citrulline correspond with decreased ACF formation, which may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

Support or Funding Information

The study was funded by The US National Watermelon Promotion Board.
Hypolipidemic Effects of High Hydrostatic Pressure Extract of Ginger in Rats Fed a High‐fat Diet
Authors: Son Hye‐yeon , Kim Seunghae , Lee Mak‐Soon , Kim Yangha
Published: November 2023

This study compared the hypolipidemic effect of hot water extract of ginger(WEG) and high hydrostatic pressure extract of ginger (HPG) in rats fed with a high‐fat diet. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed a normal diet (NOR), a high‐fat diet (HFD), a high‐fat diet supplemented with 0.8% WEG (WEG) and a high‐fat diet supplemented with 0.8% HPG (HPG) for 10 weeks. HPG supplementation significantly reduced body weight and epididymal adipose tissue weight compared to HFD group (p<0.05). In the WEG group, the body weight and epididymal adipose tissue weight tended to be lowered compared to those of HFD group. Rats supplemented with HPG showed lower serum triglyceride (TG) and higher serum HDL level compared to those of HFD group (p<0.05). Additionally, HPG significantly decreased the levels of hepatic total lipids, TG and total cholesterol (TC), while fecal total lipids, TG and TC were significantly increased compared to HFD group (p<0.05). These results suggest that HPG more efficiently reduced than WEG the body weight and improved lipid profiles through decreasing hepatic lipids and promoting fecal lipids excretion.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the Brain Korea 21 plus project funding (No. 22A20130012143)
Cardioprotective Effects of Red Raspberries in Obesity‐prone Rats
Authors: Kirakosyan Ara , Seymour E Mitchell , Kondoleon Nicholas , Wolforth Janet , Bolling Steven
Published: November 2023

The intake of red raspberry fruit is inversely related to cardiac risk factors and cardiovascular disease. In this study, the effect of red raspberry intake was assessed in obesity‐prone, Zucker Fatty rats as a model of cardiometabolic risk. For 8 weeks, rats were fed a higher‐fat diet (45% of kcal) containing 2% (wt/wt) freeze‐dried whole raspberry powder (RSP) or added sugars (CON) to match macronutrient and calorie content. RSP reduced fasting triglycerides and fasting glucose but did not appear to affect fasting insulin, fasting low‐density lipoprotein, or body weight gain. RSP trended but did not significantly reduce systolic blood pressure, but did significantly reduce heart rate relative to time‐matched CON rats. Noteworthy, compared to CON, RSP significantly reduced left ventricular (LV) enlargement and wall thickening as measured by echocardiography, without impacting ejection fraction. LV remodeling is a known risk factor for and precursor to heart failure. Ongoing studies of LV tissue will reveal molecular changes related to inflammation and fibrosis. Red raspberries could be an excellent candidate for dietary management cardiometabolic risk, including risk for Type‐2 diabetes. Also, intake of red raspberries could reduce eventual pathologies like heart failure, which in the US, is the leading diagnosis over the age of 65.

Support or Funding Information

Acknowledgements: This study was supported by National Processed Raspberry Council grant
Identification of Genes in the Colon Tissue Associated with Serum Leptin and Insulin in Diet‐Induced Obese Mice
Authors: Kim Sung‐Eun , Choo Jinsil , Yoon Joon , Bae Yun Jung , Park Taesung , Sung Mi‐Kyung
Published: November 2023

Obesity‐induced chronic inflammation has been known to increase the risk of ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and colorectal cancer. Accumulating evidence suggest that obesity‐associated phenotypes including leptin and insulin are key molecules linking obesity and diseases of the lower intestine. We identified serum phenotype‐associated genes in colon tissue of diet‐induced obese mice to interrogate candidate genes as early biomarkers of obesity‐associated colonic diseases. C57BL/6J mice were assigned to either normal diet (ND, 15% of fat calories) or high‐fat diet (HFD, 45% of fat calories) group for 8 weeks. Genome‐wide gene expression profiles of colon tissue were determined using Illumina MouseWG‐6 v2 Expression BeadChip, followed by statistical analyses to detect differentially expressed and to identify serum phenotype‐associated genes. Among differentially expressed genes affected by HFD, 135, 128, 110, and 341 genes were associated with serum concentration of leptin, insulin, IGF‐1, and adiponectin, respectively. We found 17 and 4 differentially expressed genes exhibited inverse relationships with serum leptin and serum insulin, respectively, by two different dietary types. Among these genes, leptin‐associated Peli3 (pellino E3 ubiquitin protein ligase family member 3), Creb1 (cAMP responsive element binding protein 1), and Enpp2 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 2, autotaxin) and insulin‐associated Centg1 (AGAP2, ArfGAP with GTPase domain) have been reported to play a role either in obesity or in colonic diseases. In conclusion, our data suggest that Peli3, Creb1, Enpp2, and Centg1 would be potential candidate early biomarkers of obesity‐induced pathophysiological changes in the colon. Further studies on gene functions related to diseases of lower intestine needs to be fulfilled.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by the SRC program (Center for Food & Nutritional Genomics: 2015R1A5A6001906) of the National Research Foundation of Korea funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
Salacia Extract Improves Post‐Prandial Glucose and Insulin Response: A Randomized Double Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Cross‐over Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Jeykodi Shankaranarayanan , Teja Vimal , Deshpande Jayant , Juturu Vijaya
Published: November 2023

Extracts of Salacia species from roots, stems, and leaves have been used for the treatment of diabetes and other associated risk factors in Asia. Studies indicate that Salacia extracts modulate multiple targets that influence carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. This study is to examine the effect of differing doses of a novel form of Salacia extract (SE) on glucose and insulin response to an oral sucrose load in healthy individuals (South Asian Population). Thirty five (N=35, 18 to 55 years of age; BMI ≥24.50 to 29.50 Kg/m2) adult healthy individuals (male and female)were randomly assigned to ingest SE at dosages of 200 mg SE, 300 mg SE and 500 mg (OmniLeanTM) or placebo (PLA) in a single center, double‐blind, randomized, placebo controlled parallel design. Plasma glucose and plasma insulin responses were measured after 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 min of ingesting oral sucrose standard solution and Area under curve for glucose (AUCglucose) and insulin response (AUCinsulin) was calculated. ANOVA and paired t‐tests were used to examine differences between treatments and over baseline. Compared with PLA, SE 500 mg significantly lowered blood sugars and insulin from 60 minutes, 90 minutes and 120 minutes, SE 300 mg significantly lower at 90 min and 180 min and 200 mg at 90 min and 120 minutes. AUCglucose was not significant. Plasma insulin levels and AUCinsulin were significantly lowered after ingestion of SE. No significant adverse events were observed at any dose. Thus, in reducing the early rise in blood glucose and insulin after sucrose ingestion, Salacia extract (SE) prevents the occurrence of reactive hypoglycemia; the present study confirm that this nutritional ingredient may be of value in reducing post prandial insulin and glucose.

Support or Funding Information

OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd., Mumbai, India
The Effects of Enrolling in a Nutrition Class on Dietary Intake for Whittier College Students
Authors: Duong Jimmy , Martinez Cody , Beeson W Lawrence , Cordero‐MacIntyre Zaida Lawrence
Published: November 2023

Background

Dietary modification is an important component to any public health strategy aimed at combatting obesity. Nutrition education is used for dietary modification as subjects obtain more knowledge about food and its nutritional content. Several nutrition education programs have led to healthier food choices. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of enrolling in an introductory nutrition course at Whittier College on food choices.

Methods

Prospective three‐month study with 23 students from Whittier College (males = 8, females = 15) who were enrolled in an introductory nutrition course. A validated food frequency questionnaire from the University of Arizona was administered at baseline and at the three month follow‐up to assess any significant changes in dietary intake. The results from the frequency questionnaires were sent to the University of Arizona Diet, Behavior, and Quality of Life Assessment Lab to analyze macronutrient and micronutrient intake. Paired t‐tests were used to calculate mean differences (meand) and non‐parametric alternatives were used to calculate median differences (medd) between baseline and 3 month follow‐up on dietary intake and physical activity.

Results

There was a significant reduction in caloric intake (meand=−22.31%, p=0.04), alcohol intake (meand=−3.4%, p=0.01), total fatty acid intake (meand=−24.69%, 0.03), saturated fatty intake (meand=−22.44%, p=0.03), and Trans fatty acid intake (meand=−23.5%, p=0.06). Total body weight and BMI were not significantly altered (medd @ 0, p=0.2471; medd @ 0, p=0.1311), respectively.

Conclusion

Whittier College students enrolled in a nutrition course showed significant decreases in their total fatty acid intake, but notably, their saturated fatty acid and Trans fatty acid intake were reduced. These reported changes may relate to the improvement of healthier food choices as a result of the students’ enrollment in a nutrition course that improved their self‐care
Coexistence of Metabolic Syndrome and Osteopenia associated with Diet‐Related Factors among Postmenopausal Women in South Korea: The 2008–2011 Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination (KNHANES)
Authors: Lee Hansongyi , Lim Hyunjung
Published: November 2023

Aims

This study was to examine the association between socioeconomic status, health related behaviors, diet related factors and the coexistence metabolic syndrome (MetS) and osteopenia (OP).

Methods

1991 postmenopausal women aged 45–65 years were using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008–2011 data. Based on existence of MetS or/and OP, postmenopausal women were grouped as Normal, MetS, OP, and MetS+OP. Using a complex sampling design, the SAS PROC SURVEY module which considers strata, cluster, and weights was utilized. Logistic regression analysis were used for the associations between socioeconomic status, health or diet related factors and prevalence of the coexistence of MetS and OP.

Results

Less income [OR=4.7 (95% CI 2.5–8.9)] and low education [OR=2.1 (1.5–3.0)] were associated with prevalence of coexistence MetS+OP. Low physical activity have increased 40% of coexistence group [OR=1.4 (1.1–1.9)]. Subjects who have both MetS and OP showed unbalanced diet, selected inadequate nutrients and no consumption of food groups. Compared with dietary reference intakes for Koreans, women who insufficient consumption of nutrients such as calcium [OR=1.5 (1.1–2.0)], phosphorous [OR=1.3 (1.0–1.7)], vitamin A [OR=2.1 (1.5–3.0)] and no consumption daily of fruits [OR=1.4 (1.0–1.9)] and dairy [OR=1.6 (1.2–2.3)] were associated with coexistence MetS and OP after age‐adjustment. Further adjustment for socioeconomic status, women who do not consumption of dairy have increased 48% of coexistence MetS and OP [OR=1.5 (1.0–2.1)].

Conclusion

Prevalence of the coexistence of MetS and OP have associated with less education, low income status and low physical activity. Although inadequate intake of nutrients (calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A) and no food groups consumption (fruits and dairy) association with coexistence of MetS and OP, further adjustment for socioeconomic status, dairy intakes associated with coexistence MetS and OP among postmenopausal South Korea women.

Support or Funding Information

None.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Nutrition and Physical Activity in Children of Primary Schools in Chiapas, Yucatan and Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Saltijeral Luanda
Published: November 2023

Objective

To identify the knowledge, attitudes and practices of nutrition and physical activity in children of primary schools in Chiapas, Quintana Roo and Yucatan, Mexico.

Method, Participants & Intervention

The diagnosis was conducted in October 2015 in 36 primary schools (19 in Chiapas, 4 in Quintana Roo and 13 in Yucatan). A Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices survey (KAP) was applied to a statically significant randomized sample of 1292 students from grades 4th through 6th. The data analysis was descriptive

Results

49% of the respondents were boys and 51% girls. The analysis shows, 69% of the children reported plain water consumption at school the day before the survey, and that 15% had drank three or more sugar‐sweetened beverages; 70% had consumed vegetables and 66% had consumed at least one fruit. However, 43% consumed fried foods and 51% sweets or pastries, the day prior to the evaluation. Concerning the practice of physical activity (PA), 97% of respondents considered it as favorable to keeping a healthy weight and 95% said that being overweight affects health; however, only 28% performed at least 30 minutes of PA three times a week.

Conclusions

It is necessary to make greater efforts to promote the practice of PA in school. Educational strategies focused on the modification of eating habits and PA for health, should build on knowledge and attitudes prevalent in the school population, in order to ensure the success of educational interventions.

Support or Funding Information

FEMSA Foundation & Save The Children
Effect of Silicon Supplementation on Immune Response in Male and Female Mice
Authors: Kim Se‐Yune , Kim Sang‐Ki , Choi Mi‐Kyeong
Published: November 2023

Several studies have reported that silicon (Si) is biologically critical element and plays a role in immune response. However, how Si supplementation affects immune response is not well addressed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Si supplementation on immune response. Forty‐eight mice aged 5‐week were divided into 6 groups according to sex and Si level. Si was provided orally through water containing different contents as a form of sodium metasilicate solution (control: 0.0005%, Si100: 0.05%, Si200: 0.10%) for 4 weeks. Immune response markers in serum, liver, and spleen were analyzed using ELISA, ICP‐OES, and real‐time RT‐PCR. There were no significant differences in body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency ratio according to Si supplementation in both males and females. A high level of Si supplementation significantly decreased interferon gamma in males and increased interleukin 6 (IL‐6) in females (p<0.05). In the mRNA expression related to immune function of spleen, Si supplementation significantly increased IL‐6 in males and cyclooxygenase‐2 in females (p<0.05). In light of these results, we conclude that Si supplementation has the ability to alter immune response markers by enhancing gene expression of immune mediators.
The effect of curcumin in intestinal cells
Authors: Lee Hyuna , Cho Jin Ah , Park Eunmi
Published: November 2023

Curcumin, a major component of the Curcuma species, contains antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Although it was found to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, the functional role of curcumin as well as its molecular mechanism in anti‐inflammatory response, particularly in intestinal cells, has been less investigated. The intestine epithelial barrier is the first barrier and the most important location for the substrate coming from the lumen of the gut. We administered curcumin treatment in the human intestinal epithelial cell lines, T84 and Caco‐2. We examined endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response by thapsigargin, qPCR of XBP1 and BiP, electrophysiology by wild‐type cholera toxin in the cells. In this study, we showed that curcumin treatment reduces ER stress and thereby decreases inflammatory response in human intestinal epithelial cells. In addition, curcumin confers protection without damaging the membrane tight junction or actin skeleton change in intestine epithelial cells. Therefore, curcumin treatment protects the gut from bacterial invasion via reduction of ER stress and anti‐inflammatory response in intestinal epithelial cells. Taken together, our data demonstrate the important role of curcumin in protecting the intestine by modulating ER stress and inflammatory response post intoxication.

Support or Funding Information

National Research of Korea ( 2015R1C1A1A02037579)
Grifola frondosa Extract (GFE) Lowers the Lymphatic Absorption of Cholesterol in Rats
Authors: Kim Juyeon , Noh Sang K.
Published: November 2023

Recently, we have shown that GFE supplementation improves hyperlipidemic conditions in high fructose fed rats. In this study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of GFE on the intestinal absorption of cholesterol in rats. Male rats with lymph cannulae were infused at 3.0 mL/h for 8 h via a duodenal catheter with a lipid emulsion containing 1.0 μCi cholesterol labeled with 14C (14C‐ cholesterol), 452 mol triolein, 75.4 mol retinol, 20.7 mol cholesterol, and 3.1 mol α‐tocopherol, and 396.0 mol Na‐taurocholate with or without GFE (100.0 mg/rat/8h) in 24 mL PBS buffer (pH, 6.4). Lymph was collected hourly for 8 h from lymph duct cannulated rats. Results showed that GFE significantly lowered the lymphatic absorption of 14C‐cholesterol (26.6 ± 4.2% dose in GFE‐infused rats vs. 35.6 ± 2.7% dose in control rats), with a significantly higher amount of 14C‐radioactivity remained in the small intestinal lumen and cecum in rats infused with GFE. The findings provide direct evidence that GFE has an inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of cholesterol by enhancing the luminal transport of cholesterol into the cecum. The mechanism(s) by which GFE affects the intestinal absorption of cholesterol warrants further studies.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Business for Cooperative R&D between Industry, Academy, and Research Institute funded Korea Small and Medium Business Administration in 2014.
Effect of breakfast eating versus breakfast skipping on obesity related anthropometry: a systematic review
Authors: Milanes Jillian E , Allison David B , Brown Andrew W , Brown Michelle M Bohan
Published: November 2023

Background

Breakfast consumption is frequently recommended for weight loss and the prevention of obesity. Although breakfast eating has been repeatedly associated with lower BMIs through numerous observational studies and meta‐analyses of observational studies, the causal effects of eating versus skipping breakfast on obesity has not been systematically reviewed.

Objective

To synthesize available evidence on the effects of eating versus skipping breakfast on anthropometric measures related to weight in randomized controlled trials.

Methods

Scopus, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Alt‐HealthWatch, and Proquest Global Thesis and Dissertation databases were searched for randomized controlled trials in humans that investigated the effects of breakfast consumption or skipping on weight‐related outcomes. Inclusion criteria were: studies with 72 hours or longer of intervention; reported changes in weight‐related outcomes measured objectively; participants with normal weight or greater; participants without diseases expected to influence weight; and the effects of breakfast eating versus breakfast skipping could be isolated from other treatment components. Titles and abstracts were double coded.

Results

The search resulted in 4,047 results across databases; 3,255 after duplicates removed; and 3,182 after animal studies were removed using an automated approach. Titles and abstracts from 47 entries were reevaluated for inclusion, with 19 evaluated at the full text level. Two additional articles were identified from alternative sources. Only 6 articles met all criteria, with another 6 papers (possibly only 3 unique studies) seeming to meet all criteria except for reporting of weight. In the 6 papers that met all the criteria, 4 studies were conducted in the US, 2 in the UK; 5 studies in adults, 1 in adolescents (age 18+); study length ranged from 2–16 weeks; 4 parallel arm RCTs, 2 cross‐over RCTs; 3 provided meals and 3 gave recommendations/meal plans; weight‐related outcomes included fat mass, fat mass index, percent fat mass, BMI, fat free mass, waist circumference, waist:hip ratio, and body mass; and the n randomized ranged from 5 to 56 per treatment arm. Of 38 comparisons among breakfast vs skipping on weight‐related outcomes, 2 were significant in favor of a breakfast, and two were significant in favor of skipping. The rest were non‐significant.

Conclusions

This systematic review does not support the general contention that eating versus skipping breakfast is beneficial for weight‐related outcomes. This does not preclude the possibility that certain types of breakfasts or certain populations may respond positively or negatively to eating vs skipping, or that breakfast may have other health beneficial or detrimental effects. Quantitative synthesis of these results is forthcoming.

This systematic review and meta‐analysis was registered at http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/as CRD42016033290.
Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP4) induce Cellular Senescence in Human Umbilical Cord Blood‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Kim Miyeon , Bae Yun Kyung , Kwon Jihye , Jeon Hong Bae , Jin Hye Jin
Published: November 2023

Recently, the number of clinical trials in which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)‐based therapy is employed to treat various diseases has increased. A fundamental requirement for these MSCs‐based therapies is the expansion of MSCs during long‐term growth in culture, which is required to obtain a sufficient number of functional cells. However, long‐term growth inevitably arguments cellular senescence, which potentially causes poor clinical outcomes by inducing growth arrest and the loss of stem cell properties in MSCs. Thus, the identification of suitable markers for evaluating the status of MSCs senescence during long‐term culture is crucial. Here, we investigated the surface markers of human umbilical cord blood‐derived MSCs (hUCB‐MSCs) associated with cellular senescence using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analysis and 242 cell surface‐marker antibodies. Among these surface proteins, we selected dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP4) which further validated for their expression by flow cytometer analysis. It has been shown that expression of DPP4 was the markedly increased in the aging hUCB‐MSCs. Through sorting analysis and small interfering RNA treatment, the DPP4 positive hUCB‐MSCs had the low rate of cell growth and differentiation potentials, and significantly higher expression of p38, p53, pRb, and β galactosidase‐positive staining, well known markers of senescence. In addition, suppression of DPP4 in hUCB‐MSCs resulted in up‐regulation of stemness genes, including Oct4, Nanog. Interestingly, DPP4 negative hUCB‐MSCs induced to a greater improvement in therapeutic effect by not only promoting the engraftment potential of infused stem cell, but also reducing lung damage in an emphysema mouse model. Taken together, our results demonstrate that DPP4 is a new marker for predicting senescence in hUCB‐MSCs, and it could be valuable in quality‐control assessments and for improving the therapeutic potential of hUCB‐MSCs‐based therapy.
Association of smoking with salty taste preference, sodium intake, and the risk of metabolic syndrome in Korean men: a community‐based longitudinal study (2001~2010)
Authors: Hyun Taisun , Park Na‐Young , Kim Heon
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of smoking with salty taste preference, sodium intake, and the risk of metabolic syndrome in Korean men using community‐based cohort data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) of the Korea Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Among 4,763 men aged 40 to 69 years participated in the baseline study, those who did not attend 8‐year follow‐up or who had missing data in smoking history, general information, anthropometric measurement, food frequency questionnaire, or had the energy intake of less than 800 kcal or more than 4,000 kcal, or who had been diagnosed with chronic diseases, or who had changed their smoking status during the 8‐year study period were excluded. A final cohort of 1,091 men was used in the analysis. The subjects were classified as current, former, and non‐smokers. After controlling for potential confounders such as age, education, income, BMI, and alcohol drinking, the preference score for salty taste was significantly higher in current smokers than in non‐smokers (p<0.01). At baseline, current smokers more frequently consumed Kimchi (p<0.05), Noodles (p<0.001) and Korean‐style pickles & salt‐fermented fish (p<0.01) than in non‐smokers. In addition, mean daily sodium intake of current smokers was significantly higher than that of non‐smokers (p<0.01). The multivariate‐adjusted hazard ratios (HR) of developing metabolic syndrome in former smokers and current smokers were 1.12 (95% CI: 0.79–1.58) and 1.48 (95% CI: 1.05–2.00), respectively, compared to non‐smokers. The HR of developing metabolic syndrome in current smokers whose sodium intake was relatively high was 1.22 (95% CI : 0.83–1.81) compared to that in current smokers whose sodium intake was relatively low to moderate. Our results from the community‐based longitudinal study showed that current smokers prefer salty taste, and consumed salty foods more frequently and higher amount of sodium compared to non‐smokers. In addition, cigarette smoking increased the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Further study is needed to clarify the association of high sodium intake and the risk of metabolic syndrome in smokers.
Characterizing the Nutritional Health of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth
Authors: Deering Stephanie , Hade Erinn , Slesnick Natasha , Hatsu Irene
Published: November 2023

Objective

There is a dearth of information about the nutritional health of homeless youth, a population considered one of the most vulnerable within society. Nutritional health influences the risk for poorer physical and mental health outcomes. Homeless youth experience various health challenges that could be related to their nutritional health. The goal of this study is to describe the nutritional and dietary status of a sample of homeless youth in a Midwestern city in the United States.

Methods

An observational study of homeless youth was conducted. Youth were recruited from a local drop‐in center in Columbus, Ohio. After providing informed consent, data on socio‐demographic characteristics and dietary intake was collected. Dietary intake data was based on 24‐hour dietary recalls collected on two nonconsecutive days. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were also assessed. Nutrient intakes were adjusted to usual intake and compared to Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for age and gender to determine adequacy of intakes. Descriptive statistics were used in characterizing the sample.

Results

Of the 36 participants with currently available data, ages ranged from 18–24 years (median of 21). A similar number of participants identified themselves as African American (39%, n=14) and White (42%, n=15). One‐quarter are female and 36% indicated some form of employment. Eight percent are underweight and 44% (95% CI: 27.9%–61.9%) are overweight or obese (BMI≥25). Average usual energy intake is 1861 ± 757 kcal. More than 85% of the sample have inadequate intakes of calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin C, with 100% not consuming adequate amounts of vitamins D and E.

Conclusion

Inadequate nutrient intake as well as overweight and obesity are prevalent among homeless youth. Our findings support consequences of difficulty with food access reported within this population. Inadequate intake of essential nutrients may expose homeless youth to poor physical and mental health outcomes.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by The Ohio State University, College of Education and Human Ecology, Faculty Seed Grant and by Grant #UL1TR001070.
Visual pattern to diagnostic microscopic in virtual image of gingival squamous cell carcinoma associating a type of cognitive style
Authors: Mondragon Edward Acero
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The diagnostic microscopic made by virtual image are increasingly in medical societies and is used also to teach in regulate basics and clinical courses of schools of medicine; today with eye‐tracking technology is possible to measure microscopic diagnostic achieving and competency.

Objetive

Visual pattern to diagnostic microscopic in virtual image of gingival squamous cell carcinoma or GSCC associating a type of cognitive style.

Materials and Methods

Ten residents of first year enrolled level one of postgraduate histology course to surgical odontologist maxillo facial. The residents were recruited using an eye‐tracking device, and recording eye‐movements of free interactions with the virtual image of GSCC, and analyzed the type of visual pattern to diagnostic microscopic.

Results

The results show how all residents have different visual pattern to build and diagnostic microscopic of GSCC but when was classified the visual pattern in a type of cognitive style between cognitive field dependent or field independent, the diagnostic skills of seven residents were cognitive style independent by more quantity and quickly saccadic movements respect three residents with cognitive style dependent or minor quickly and minor quantity of saccadic movements.

Conclusions

This preliminary quantitative measure of visual pattern in diagnostic microscope linked to cognitive style may benefit new approach to teach effective diagnostic microscopic whit virtual image of GSCC
Proteomic analyses of src+/+ and src−/− mouse brain microvessels reveals insights into the regulation of the blood brain barrier integrity
Authors: Minder Petra , Scott Michael , Moresco James J , Baird Andrew , Yates John R , Eliceiri Brian P , Torbett Bruce E
Published: November 2023

The blood brain barrier (BBB) is a highly selective permeability barrier, composed of endothelial cells with tight intercellular junctions, surrounded by a basal lamina, astrocytes, and pericytes, which regulates the entry of compounds and cells between the blood and brain. The integrity of the BBB is necessary for maintaining brain function, whereas a number of severe brain diseases, such as stroke, edema, brain tumors and multiple sclerosis, have been associated with deregulation of BBB integrity. Therefore, understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms whereby BBB integrity is maintained or deregulated, will be essential for restoration of BBB homeostasis after injury, as well as for selective therapeutic delivery.

To interrogate the cellular and molecular mechanisms that maintain BBB integrity, we utilized Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology (MudPIT) proteomics to identify proteins from normal mouse (src+/+) brain microvessels and microvessels from a leakage‐resistant vascular phenotype resulting from loss of Src (src−/−). Src is a non‐receptor tyrosine kinase that phosphorylates specific tyrosine residues and has been demonstrated to be necessary for the maintenance of BBB integrity. src−/−mice support relatively normal vessel development and sprouting, but demonstrate a leakage‐resistant phenotype.

We identified 2479 proteins from MudPIT proteomics from src+/+ and src−/− mouse brain microvessel membrane preparations (n=3 biological samples from each phenotype), of which 150 proteins were determined to be differentially expressed in src−/− as compared to src+/+ microvessels. The top five cellular compartments showing protein changes were membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, mitochondrion, and cell junction. Comparing microvessels of src+/+ to src−/− mice, we found differential expression of 42 proteins involved in transport across the plasma membrane and 47 proteins involved in cell adhesion and cytoskeleton remodeling. GeneGo analysis software was used to generate Pathway Maps. The majority of pathways and the relevant proteins identified are involved in cell adhesion and cytoskeleton development and regulation. Moreover, the Src‐regulated gene, Cdc42, was downregulated in src−/− compared to src+/+ tissue. Furthermore, we identified altered regulation of proteins necessary for actin dynamics and junctional remodeling in src−/− vessels. Imaging of actin in src−/− brain microvessels revealed that actin filaments are altered as compared to src+/+ mice.

Our findings reveal that specific proteins are necessary for regulating the actin cytoskeleton to maintain BBB integrity through precise control of specific transporters. No significant alterations in the BBB basement membrane appeared to be necessary for alterations in BBB permeability.
Angiogenesis by EVGATA−4 is mediated by transfer of let‐7 miRNA family
Authors: Xu Meifeng , Gong Min , Yu Bin , Wang Yi‐Gang , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Background

It is well known that extracellular vesicles (EVs) from stem cells are responsible for mediating diverse bio‐effects through delivering bioactive molecules. Here, we investigated whether the angiogenesis by EVs released from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) overexpressing GATA4 (EVGATA−4) is mediated by miRs let‐7 family.

Methods and Results

MSCs were transduced GATA‐4 (MSCGATA−4) using the murine stem cell virus retroviral expression system. The conditioned medium was collected from MSCGATA−4 and its control counterpart MSCnull. EVs were isolated using exosome precipitation solution.

The data of MicroRNA‐seq of EVs shows that 358 miRs were found in EVs with 46 miRs significantly increased in EVGATA−4 compared to those in EVs derived from MSCnull (EVnull). let‐7 family not only have had a high reads in EVs, but also significantly upregulated in EVGATA−4 compared to that in EVnull.

The number of tubular structure formation was more in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with EVGATA−4 (30μg/300μl) than in those treated with EVnull. The cumulative length of sprout per spheroid was also greater in EVGATA−4‐treated HUVECs than EVnull‐treated cells.

To further study the effect of EVs on blood vessel formation, a Matrigel containing EVs (100μg/plug) was subcutaneously injected into the abdomen of mice. Two weeks later, the Matrigel plugs were harvested. The cell number and hemoglobin were significantly increased in the plugs containing EVGATA−4 compared to the plugs containing EVnull.

The real‐time imaging capture system recorded that EVs pre‐labeled with PKH26 could be internalized by HUVECs. The expression of let‐7f in HUVECs treated with EVGATA−4 was significantly upregulated. Silence of let‐7f in EVGATA−4 by transfecting with an inhibitor of let‐7f reduced the angiogenetic effect of EVGATA−4.

Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) is one of the potential target genes of let‐7f and an inhibitor of angiogenesis. The expression of THBS1 was significantly down‐regulated in HUVEC treated with EVGATA−4.

Conclusion

The increased pro‐angiogenic capacity of EVGATA−4 is associated with let‐7 transfer into HUVECs and down‐regulation of the expression of THBS1 in HUVECs.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health grants HL105176 and HL114654 (M. Xu).
Effect of Recombinant Lubricin on Human Blood Coagulation Parameters and Platelet Aggregation
Authors: Emanuele Nicholas , Hoppensteadt Debra , Wanderling Chris , Carlsgaard Peter , Truitt Ed , Hopkinson William , Fareed Jawed
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Lubricin (proteoglycan 4; PRG4) is a proteoglycan which acts at tissue interfaces as a boundary lubricant. Lubricin is present in synovial fluid and plays a major role in synovial homeostasis. A recombinant form of human lubricin, rh‐PRG4 is being developed to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions, including osteoarthritis & dry eye (Lubris Biopharma, Boston, MA). The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of rh‐PRG4 on blood coagulation utilizing various experimental studies.

Materials and Methods

rh‐PRG4 was supplemented with citrated whole blood from normal human donors (n = 10) to obtain a concentration range of 0–200 mg/uL. Activated clotting time (ACT), thrombelastographic analysis (TEG), and whole blood prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and thrombin times (TT) were measured. Similarly, citrated plasma was supplemented with rh‐PRG4 at 0–200 mg/ML to determine PT, aPTT and TT. The effect of this agent was also studied on the generation of factors Xa and IIa using a fluorokinetic method. Additionally, rh‐PRG4 was also studied for its effect on platelet aggregation induced by various agonists, such as ADP, collagen, epinephrine and thrombin at a concentration range of 0–20 ug/ml.

Results

rh‐PRG4 did not produce any effect on the whole blood clotting assays, such as the PT, aPTT and TT. Similarly, in the citrated plasma, none of the clotting assays were altered. rh‐PRG4 did not produce any inhibition of thrombin generation in plasma. Furthermore, it did not produce any inhibition or augmentation of agonist‐induced platelet aggregation. These studies suggest that rh‐PRG4 does not modify whole blood and plasma coagulation profile and produce and more relation of platelet function.

Conclusions

These studies suggest that because of no potential alteration of the coagulation system, lubricin is not expected to modulate bleeding or thrombotic processes in clinical indications.
Purification of the C‐Terminal Domain of ANAPC2 and Evidence Supporting the Interaction of Lead Compounds for Inhibition of Mitosis
Authors: Hoffman J. Mason , Al‐Eryani Laila , Saforo Douglas J. , Taylor B. Frazier , Trent John O. , Garbett Nichola C. , States J Christopher
Published: November 2023

Background

Mitosis‐inhibiting chemotherapeutics are a common approach to treat cancer. Successful therapy is often limited due to drug‐resistant tumors, neurotoxicity, and limited availability. There is high demand for new drugs with diverse cellular targets. The anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is a multi‐subunit E3 ubiquitin ligase that controls cell cycle progression by marking key proteins for degradation, offering great potential as a target for drug development. The catalytic core consists of an ANAPC2/ANAPC11 dimer. Homology models of the ANAPC2/ANAPC11 subunits were analyzed in silico to identify compounds predicted to bind the C‐terminal domain (CTD) of ANAPC2, preventing ANAPC11 association and inhibiting APC/C function. Biological data indicates that the lead compounds identified induce mitotic arrest and cell death in multiple cancer cell lines, consistent with APC/C inhibition. Here, we aim to produce recombinant ANAPC2 CTD, and investigate compound binding via thermofluor assays, a biophysical method for monitoring protein stability in the presence of a ligand.

Methods

ANAPC2 CTD cDNA was optimized for expression in E. coli, and protein was purified using the NEB IMPACT® system. Thermofluor assays were performed to observe any compound‐induced changes in ANAPC2 stability.

Results

We have successfully produced pure ANAPC2 CTD, verified by coomassie stained SDS‐PAGE and by mass spectrometry. In addition, we observed changes in the ANAPC2 CTD thermal spectra in the presence of lead compounds.

These results are consistent with observed biological effects, supporting the hypothesis that targeting the APC/C offers promise for development of novel chemotherapeutics. The melting temperature of ANAPC2 CTD, however, is too low to produce full melting curves. Therefore, in order demonstrate stabilization of ANAPC2 in the presence of lead compounds, it may be necessary to produce full‐length recombinant ANAPC2 for use in the assays.

Support or Funding Information

KY Science sand Engineering Foundation grant KSEF‐3249‐RDE‐018; KY Lung Cancer Research Program grant 14‐JCS‐01; University of Louisville School of Medicine Basic Research Grant
UCSD Center for Drug Discovery Innovation: Resourcing and Educating Scientists and Students for Academic Discovery Translation
Authors: Feher Victoria , Gilson Michael , Hermann Thomas
Published: November 2023

The Center for Drug Discovery Innovation, CDDI, enables translation of novel biological and technology discoveries through facilitating connections between scientists and engineers with different translational expertise, educational seminars and training opportunities, and a number of new UCSD‐based Resource Centers. Here we present details on our Resource Centers. The Center for Compound Resources provides unique natural product libraries developed at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography and other small molecule entities synthesized at UCSD. The UCSD Drug Development Pipeline Core provides preclinical small molecule in vitro ADME property assessment, snapshot PK and PD assay development. The Center for Translational Drug Design offers a menu of early discovery support activities ranging from expert state‐of‐the‐art computational chemistry, access to software and database tools, grant writing support and lead to IND project management. Together these Cores allow faculty at UCSD and UC‐wide to leverage their discoveries to development stages and/or pharmaceutical partnership.
Identification of Novel Developmental Genes in Streptomyces coelicolor Using Random Mutagenesis
Authors: Brown Breanna Caitlin , Sepúlveda Nicholas , Kandell Garrett , Kirk Sean , Stark Morgan , Ranzau Brodie , Green Kevan , Giancola Kailey , Bennett Jennifer A
Published: November 2023

Streptomyces species are gram positive filamentous soil bacteria found worldwide. They are known for their ability to synthesize over two‐thirds of the antibiotics in use today. The Streptomyces genome is the largest bacterial genome to be sequenced thus far and contains the largest known amount of genes within a single bacterium. Many of these genes are involved in the complex program of development that is characteristic of this bacterial genus. The purpose of this study was to identify new genes involved in the development of Streptomyces coelicolor through random transposon mutagenesis of the wild‐type strain followed by visual screens. Candidates exhibiting potential developmental defects were then analyzed using phase‐contrast microscopy. To identify the site of transposon insertion, chromosomal DNA was isolated, subjected to restriction enzyme digestion and subsequent ligation followed by inverse polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Both known developmental genes and novel genes were identified through this process. Known developmental genes were identified such as whiH, indicating that the visual screens are working. Among the four novel genes identified were genes that encode a possible ATP/GTP binding protein, a putative monooxygenase, a putative membrane protein of unknown function, and a probable polyketide synthase. The mutants have already been partially characterized using microscopy and deletion mutations are currently being constructed to verify that the transposon insertions are causing the developmental phenotypes. Many additional developmental genes are believed to exist in this pharmacologically important bacterial genus, and this research provides multiple genes of interest for further study.