bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) upregulates synaptotagmin XIII through a VIP1/PKA‐dependent signaling mechanism in mouse splenocytes (611.4)
Authors: Bisnett Brittany , Wanjara Steve , Hoselton Scott , Schuh Jane , Dorsam Glenn 
Published: June 2021

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a potent immune regulator and secretagogue delivered by the peripheral nervous system to immune organs. VIP inhibits pro‐inflammatory, but increases anti‐inflammatory, cytokine secretion, deactivates macrophages and induces regulatory T cells. However, little is known about how VIP affects resting immune cells. Our laboratory discovered that VIP upregulated synaptotagmin (syt) XIII in resting CD4 T cells. Syt XIII is a calcium‐independent transmembrane protein that plays a vital role in vesicle exocytosis. This research is significant as the upregulation of syt XIII by VIP would maintain an important “exocytosis program” in resting immune cells. We hypothesize that VIP induced upregulation of syt XIII is dependent on its receptor VIP1, but not VIP2, through a Gαs→AC→PKA signaling mechanism in splenocytes. This research will utilize primary mouse splenocytes treated +/‐ VIP to identify peak expression of syt XIII by qPCR and western analysis. Optimal conditions will be repeated with VIP2 KO animals, VIP1 receptor antagonists and small molecule inhibitors of PKA (H89) and assessed by qPCR and/or western analysis for syt XIII expression. The significance of the proposed research is to better delineate how the nervous system regulates immunity.Grant Funding Source: This research will be supported by NIH/NIAID (R15 to GD).
Mechanism‐based inactivation of human CYP3A4 by a piperazine‐containing compound (615.5)
Authors: Fujiwara Rina , Bolles Amanda , Furge Laura 
Published: June 2021

Human cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) are monooxygenases that are responsible for metabolism of a variety of small compounds including many pharmaceutical drugs. The main drug metabolizing CYP is CYP3A4 that metabolizes around half of drugs. Some drugs are known to inhibit CYP3A4, lowering the ability of CYP3A4 to metabolize other compounds leading to adverse events. 1‐[(2‐Ethyl‐4‐methyl‐1H‐imidazol‐5‐yl)‐methyl]‐4‐[4‐trifluoromethyl‐2pyrinyl]piperazine (EMTPP), while not a pharmaceutical drug, contains a piperazine group and substituted imidazole ring frequently found in pharmaceutical compounds. EMTPP is also similar in structure to SCH66712 and both EMTPP and SCH 66712 have previously been described as inactivators of CYP2D6 [Hutzler, Steenwyk, Smith, Walker, Wienkers (2004) Chem Res Toxicol 17, 174‐184; Nagy, Mocny, Diffenderfer, Hsi, Butler, Arthur, Fletke, Palamanda, Nomeir, Furge (2011) Drug Metab Dispos 39, 974‐983]. Our group has also recently shown SCH66712 to be a potent inactivator CYP3A4 and hypothesized that EMTPP would be as well. In this study, time‐ and concentration‐dependent inactivation of CYP3A4 by EMTPP was observed. Furthermore, the partition ratio for potency of EMTPP inactivation of CYP3A4 was measured along with possible routes of inactivation. This study lends insight into similarities between CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 for interaction with inactivators.Grant Funding Source: Supported by NIH 1R15‐GM086767‐02
Metabolic profile of fragrant and non‐fragrant ornamental potato flowers (617.5)
Authors: Lawrence Jim , Sauer Jon 
Published: June 2021

Odoriferous floral organic compounds are important biological signaling agents. These compounds are often sought for their pleasant characteristics in perfumery and gardening. Wild samples of ornamental potato flower possessing an unexpected rose‐resembling odor (P population) were compared to unscented potato flowers of close relation (VER Population). Volatile small‐molecule analysis by GC/MS, coupled with spectral identification software, identified three volatiles connected to fragrance: β‐farnesol, phenethyl alcohol (PEA), and phenylacetaldehyde (PA). Standards of each compound were run to ensure proper identification by comparing retention time as well as fragmentation patterns. Additionally, concentrations of PA and PEA were obtained. Elevated PEA concentrations in the P population were found to accompany depressed PA. Conversely, decreased PEA was found in the VER population with increased PA.Phenacetaldehyde reductase (PAR), responsible for the conversion of phenylacetaldehyde reductase to phenethyl alcohol, is now being investigated using SDS‐PAGE with LC/MS. Preliminary results in SDS‐PAGE show that differential protein expression exists between the P and VER populations. Determining whether PAR is the culprit opens up characterization of the genotype of the P population. These findings can be important for designer plant breeding seeking to incorporate fragrant phenotypes.Grant Funding Source: Supported by UWSP College of Letters and Science
Using breast cancer cells to teach students about cell division and signaling through cell culture techniques: a simple lab module (618.27)
Authors: McIlrath Victoria , Trye Alice , Aguanno Ann 
Published: June 2021

We have developed a lab activity to teach the concepts of cell division, cellular communication and cancer, through application of proper animal cell culture techniques, to sophomore level biology majors. The lab module exploits the mouse mammary tumor cell line, MMT, as a model for breast cancer. Breast cancer, a disease involving unregulated cell proliferation, represents the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The drugs tamoxifen, curcumin, and NDGA are used routinely to treat female breast cancer. In this experiment, these three antiproliferative drugs are tested on MMT cells. Concentration of the drugs and length of the treatments are varied allowing students to determine the impact of these treatments on the rate of cell division. Students determine the best cell concentration for plating and growing cells, the optimal treatment time course, how to prepare and dilute drug solutions, and the rate of cell death vs cell division using simple cell counting protocols. The procedure lends to open‐ended inquiry as students can modify the protocol via testing over‐the‐counter cancer treatments. This lab module allows undergraduate students to understand cancer and how it can be treated, study cell receptors, signaling pathways, and cell division, and become acquainted with the concepts of cell culture.Grant Funding Source: Marymount Manhattan College Faculty Science Award
Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis intracellular survival (618.7)
Authors: Blount LaCheyla , Green Ashley , Lamont Elise , Sreevatsan Srinand , Paige‐Anderson Carleitta 
Published: June 2021

Johne’s Disease (JD), a wasting disease of ruminants, is of major concern within the agricultural and food defense industries. The etiological agent of JD is Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). MAP evades host‐mediated immune responses, forming an environmental niche that supports bacterial growth, ‘containment’ of the infection, and metabolic dormancy. Latent bacilli can persist for long periods or through unclear mechanisms render disease. The MAP genome is closely related to other mycobacterial pathogens, particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis disease, and has led to hypotheses on the contribution of various genes to MAP pathogenesis.Mechanisms underlying Mtb infection include the stringent response and iron acquisition. The stringent response is initiated by unfavorable environmental conditions and expression of the relA gene.Deleting relA in Mtb results in attenuation. During active growth, Mtb synthesizes carboxymycobactin, a secreted siderophore. The co‐transcribed gene cluster irtAB has been characterized to function in iron transport from Fe‐carboxymycobactin. Deletion of the irtA gene abrogates this transport mechanism.An analysis of MAP differential gene expression suggests relA and irtAB homologs as virulence factors. Further, a relA deficient MAP strain demonstrated survival attenuation in vivo and elicited an immune response that limited colonization by challenge with wild‐type MAP. We hypothesize that MAP relA and irtAB genes contribute to pathogenesis and compared in vitro growth characteristics and epithelial cell invasion of wild‐type MAP to strains harboring deletions in these genes. Our findings suggest a clear role for RelA in MAP growth. Currently, there is no effective vaccine against JD in cattle, which underscores the need to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated with MAP pathogenesis. Department of Homeland Security National Center for Food Protection and DefenseGrant Funding Source: Supported by Department of Homeland Security
Effect on the expression of VEGF and HIF‐1 alpha in atherosclerosis rat myocardial with oral HSP60 (618.8)
Authors: Hao Chunyan , Duan Hubin , Li Shuzhen 
Published: June 2021

Objective to study the effect on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia inducing factor ‐ 1 alpha (HIF ‐ 1 alpha) in atherosclerosis(AS) rat myocardial with oral heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) .Methods 40 four weeks male SD rats, weight 100 + 10 g, were randomly divided into 4 groups: the healthy control group (group C), atherosclerosis group (AS group), oral HSP60 group before building AS model (H1 group), oral HSP60 group after building AS model (H2 group), 10 rats in each group. AS model was made by high fat feed. At 180 days age, the rats were executed after obtaining the rats blood and myocardial. The gene and protein expression of rats myocardial VEGF and HIF ‐ 1 alpha were detected by reverse transcription ‐ polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and immunohistochemical.Results The VEGF gene expression in rats myocardial of group C, AS group, H1group and H2 group respectively are 0.374±0.039, 0.869±0.049, 0.443±0.031 and 0.583±0.041; the gene expression of HIF ‐ 1 alpha respectively are 0.455±0.056, 0.936±0.034, 0.553±0.048 and 0.625±0.063; the protein expression of VEGF respectively are 4.46±0.47, 9.17±0.58, 5.28±0.37 and 8.14±0.49; the protein expression of HIF ‐ 1 alpha respectively are 5.77±0.71,13.87±0.43,7.01±0.61and 0.45±0.80.Conclusion The gene and protein expression of VEGF and HIF ‐ 1 alpha in atherosclerotic rats myocardial enhanced compared with normal control group. Oral HSP60 can reduce the gene and protein expression of VEGF and HIF ‐ 1 alpha in myocardial, and reduce the degree of myocardial ischemia anoxic injury and vascular endothelial inflammatory response. Moreover, the earlier oral, the better results.Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Science and technology development projects in Shanxi Province (No. 2011004)
Prevalence of vitamin A, zinc deficiency and anemia among school children 6‐9 years old who are participants in the governmental “school breakfast program” (Programa de Desayunos Escolares) in northwestern Mexico (624.28)
Authors: Grijalva Maria , Vargas‐Tequida Bianca , Ponce‐Martinez Jose , Tortoledo‐Ortiz Orlando , Nieblas‐Almada Amparo 
Published: June 2021

The coexistence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies are increasingly recognized as a pervasive public health problem in developing countries. These deficiencies have a significant negative impact on people’s health. In Mexico, a high prevalence of subclinical vitamin A deficiency, as well as iron and zinc deficiency, have been reported. The latter has been particularly deleterious for Mexican children. Objective. To evaluate the biochemical status of vitamin A, zinc and anemia in school children participating in the school breakfast program in northwest Mexico. Subjects and Methods. Two hundred and eighteen children were clinically evaluated. We conducted a cross sectional study and were series of measurements of the levels of serum retinol, serum zinc and hemoglobin. Results. 37% of children had low levels of serum retinol; as 35% had vitamin A deficiency (DVA,>0.35‐<0.7µmol/L), and 2% presented severe deficiency (<0.35µmol/L). However, zinc deficiency was not found. Anemia was detected (Hb <11.5g/dL) in 7% of children. Conclusions. Vitamin A deficiency and anemia is a public health problem in northwest Mexico.Grant Funding Source: DIF Sonora
Bobbi be best: the development and evaluation of an audio program to promote exclusive breastfeeding in Cameroon, Central Africa (626.8)
Authors: Reinsma Kathryn , Bolima Nancy , Fonteh Florence , Okwen Patrick , Montgomery Susanne 
Published: June 2021

Background: Since 2003, the World Health Organization has recommended exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first 6 months of life. In the Northwest Region of Cameroon approximately 90% of women initiate breastfeeding, yet only 34% EBF for the recommended 6 months.Study Objective: To design an Entertainment Education (EE) audio program and discussion guide to test the hypothesis that EE improves EBF knowledge, benefits, self‐efficacy, intention, and decreases misconceptions and barriers.Methods: Formative research consisting of 12 semi‐structured interviews (SI) and 6 focus group discussions (FGD) informed the content of a series of four episodes and discussion guide using grounded theory. Differences in EBF knowledge, misconceptions, benefits, barriers, self‐efficacy, and intention between and within the control group and the intervention group were evaluated using pre‐and post‐tests and analyzed with Wilcoxon Sign Test, and Mann‐Whitney statistical tests.Results: The audio program and discussion guide which was proven to significantly improve overall EBF knowledge, misconceptions, benefits, self‐efficacy, intention and decrease barriers within the intervention group (p <. 05).Conclusion: This study provided insight into influences on EBF and proved that an audio program and discussion guide is an effective method of providing breastfeeding education to this population.Grant Funding Source: Nestle Foundation
Consumer perception in Mexico around the use of stevia in foods and beverages to reduce sugar intake (631.3)
Authors: Kapica Cathy 
Published: June 2021

Mexico has a significant and growing rate of overweight and obesity. Dietary guidance recommends reduction of energy intake, particularly from sugars. Assessing acceptable alternatives will help achieve this goal. To determine knowledge, attitude and acceptance of sweeteners, including stevia, 1000 subjects representative of the Mexican population completed an internet survey; 50% were female, ranging in age from 18‐64 years, with 70% having children in the household. Results showed that: 80% expressed concern for the amount sugars they consume; 84% are actively trying to reduce sugar; honey has the most positive sweetener impression, followed by stevia then brown sugar; stevia is perceived as safe for adults and children, and is their top choice for providing reduced calorie sweetness. Respondents overwhelmingly preferred natural origin sweeteners, with the top choices for taste being honey, agave, brown sugar, sugar, and stevia. 89% want foods and beverages for their children to have no or less sugar. In households with children, those with teenagers expressed a stronger purchase intent for foods and beverages with stevia to help reduce dietary sugar intake. Messages around reduced sugar content of products were more appealing (71‐75%) than ‘no sugar’ messages (67‐70%). Using a natural‐origin intense sweetener with zero calories, such as stevia, may help reduce dietary sugars and calories while maintaining consumer acceptance for taste and healthfulness.Grant Funding Source: Supported by The Global Stevia Institute
Protein supplements on delayed onset muscle soreness in active men and women (633.1)
Authors: Haub Mark , Cull Brooke , Rosett Andrew , Rosenkranz Sara , Noriega Kristen 
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different protein supplements on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in active men and women. Subjects completed four trials (whey protein isolate, WPI; soy protein isolate, SPI; and hydrolyzed wheat protein, HWP; and water, CON) in a double‐blind randomized fashion. During each trial, subjects consumed one of the treatments, rested for 90 minutes, then ran on a treadmill at 75% HRpeak at ‐9 percent grade for 30 min, DOMS was assessed with a tension gauge post‐run and 24 hr after the downhill run. Diet over the 24 hours was designed to be the same for all conditions based on a self‐selected menu. Repeated Measures ANOVA was used to detect differences between treatments with significance set at p < 0.05. Dietary protein elicited a decreased DOMS compared with water, with no differences observed between WPI, SPI, or HWP. These data indicate that dietary protein decreased DOMS when ingested prior to muscle damaging exercise in active men and women.Grant Funding Source: Supported by USDA/AES Hatch funds (KS‐475)
Assessment of whole gut and regional gastrointestinal transit times using a wireless motility capsule (SmartPill®) in healthy adults (637.14)
Authors: Lee Yujin , Roberts Robert , Rogers Connie , Meng Huicui , Ba Zhaoyong , Fleming Jennifer , Furumoto Emily , Kris‐Etherton Penny 
Published: June 2021

Some probiotics are hypothesized to modulate gut health, including GI transit time. In this ongoing study we are evaluating the efficacy of the probiotic bacterium Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12 (B. lactis) delivered in a yogurt smoothie or a supplement (tablet), on gut transit time (GTT), immune status, and metabolic parameters. Participants include 31 healthy adults aged 18‐40 yrs (BMI: 20‐35 kg/m2). Whole gut transit time (WGTT) at baseline was determined via two methods: blue dye diluted in 6 oz of water and the SmartPill®. Unlike blue dye assessment, regional transit times, such as gastric emptying time (GET), small bowel transit time (SBTT) and colonic transit time (CTT), can be measured by the SmartPill®. Participants’ perception of constipation was assessed by the ROME III questionnaire. WGTT measured by SmartPill® correlated with GTT measured by blue dye (ρ = 0.67, P < 0.001). SmartPill® WGTT was significantly correlated with GET and CTT (ρ = 0.396, P = 0.03 and ρ = 0.994, P < 0.001, respectively), but not with SBTT (ρ = 0.08, P = 0.675). Interestingly, WGTT was not correlated with participants perceived level of constipation (ρ = ‐0.218, P = 0.247). No significant relationships between GTT and metabolic parameters were found at baseline. SmartPill® technology enables assessment of regional and WGTT, which will permit evaluation of the effect of a B.lactis on both whole gut and regional GI transit times.Grant Funding Source: Dairy Research Institute
The relationship between diet pattern of IBS patients and H2/CH4 production (637.18)
Authors: Pilipenko Vladimir , Shakhovskaya Alla , Isakov Vasilii , Tutelyan Victor 
Published: June 2021

The relationship between diet pattern of IBS patients and H2/CH4 production Background: bacterial overgrowth is highly prevalent among IBS‐patients. Intestinal overgrouth of bacteria, produced H2 or CH4 was found to correlate with the spectrum of IBS symptoms. However, the influence of diet pattern in IBS patients to H2/CH4 production was not widely assessed.Aim: to assess the relationship between diet pattern of IBS patients and H2/CH4 production.Methods: Eighty three IBS patients according to Rome III criteria (34 IBS‐D/49 IBS‐C) were evaluated by lactulose breath test (LBT, Gastrocheck, Bedfont Scientific Ltd, UK). LBT was performed using 10 g of lactulose mixed in 150 mL of water, and breath samples collected every 15 min for a 180‐min period. “H2‐producers” and “CH4‐producers” were defined as with the presence of H2 peak >20 ppm more than the basal sample and mean CH4 excretion of 12 ppm, respectively. Dietary pattern of patients was assessed using food frequency questionnaire.Among 83 IBS patients tested by LBT, 10 patients prodused no excess of H2/CH4, 24 were CH4‐producers, 40 were H2‐producers and 9 have excess production both gases. CH4‐producers demonstrated a sighnificantly higher protein intake (112.3±6.4 g/d, p < 0.05) and higher fiber intake (24,8±6,1g/d, p=0.05) then H2‐producers (80.1±9.6g/d and 15,5±4,4g/d, respectively).Table 1. Nutritional data of IBS groups.

Nutrients\Groups
No any,n=10
Ð2 ‐ producersn=40
CH4 ‐ producersn = 24
Ð2+CH4‐ producers n = 9

Protein, g
91,7±27,2
80,1±9,6*
112,3±6,4*
101,2±14,4

Fat, g
98,2±43,3
93,7±33,4
73,3±13,2
114,7±46,7

MDS,g
81,3±45,8
111,0±71,8
108,5±84,3
102,3±69,7

Carbohydrates, g
241,1±132,0
252,9±121,3
214,1±142,7
234,3127,7±

Fiber,g
6,9±5,6
15,5±4,4*
24,8±6,1*
13,0±2,5

Energy, kkal/d
2222,0±369,0
2231,9±721,5
1973,0±664,0
2375,0±997,0

* ‐ р = 0,05 Excessive CH4 production in IBS patients is associated with higher protein and fiber intake. Therefore, treatment options of methanogenic bacteria overgrowth should include dietary modifications for correction protein intake that may decrease SIBO symptoms in IBS patients.
Early gut colonization with lactobacilli in vaginally born infants fed breast milk or infant formula (637.9)
Authors: Salminen Seppo , Isolauri Erika , Endo Akihito , Scalabrin Deolinda 
Published: June 2021

Background: Mode of delivery and type of feeding (breast or formula feeding) guide compositional development of infant gut microbiota.Objective: To explore the dogma that abrupt change from sterile existence to host‐microbe interaction takes place at birth, the evolution of microbial contact of mother and her neonate was assessed for lactobacilli.Methods: In a double‐blind, randomized, prospective study, 21‐ to 30‐day old healthy term infants vaginally born and exclusively formula‐fed received a routine cow’s milk‐based formula (C; n=79) or the same formula added with 4 g/L (1:1 ratio) of prebiotics polydextrose and galactooligosaccharides (PG; n=74). A reference breastfed group (BF; n=69) was included. Stool samples were obtained at baseline and after 30 and 60 days of feeding to assess fecal bacteria by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction.Results: Counts expressed as KW score were higher (p<0.05) in BF vs PG (120 vs 110) at 30 days and vs PG and C (115 vs 96 for both) at 60 days for L. paracasei; and vs C (123 vs 108) at 30 days and vs PG and C (122 vs. 99 and 88) at 60 days for L. rhamnosus. At 60 days, L. rhamnosus was higher in PG vs C (99 vs 88). No differences were seen for L. acidophilus, L. casei, L. delbrueckii, L. plantarum, or L. reuteri.Interpretation: Bacteria found in breast milk such as lactobacilli can also be found in infant feces. Modifying formula feeding by adding prebiotics may bring the gut microbiota closer to that of breastfed infants. Bacteria present in breast milk may aid in optimizing early gut colonization and educating the co‐evolving immune system.Grant Funding Source: Supported by a grant from Mead Johnson Nutrition