bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel microRNAs and alternative isoforms arising during human cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Stark Thomas , Roberts Brett , Arnold Justin , Spector Deborah , Yeo Gene 
Published: June 2021

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the main viral cause of birth defects, often leading to neurological disorders, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly characterized. To advance our understanding of the complex virus‐host transcriptional landscape present during infection, we have completed a suite of comprehensive transcriptome‐focused studies using HCMV‐infected human fibroblasts and neural stem cells. Through deep sequencing analysis of small RNAs, we have refined viral miRNA annotations, identified novel HCMV miRNAs, and observed significantly upregulated host miRNAs. We also sequenced Argonaute‐associated RNAs (Ago CLIP‐seq) to obtain direct evidence for incorporation of all HCMV miRNAs into the endogenous host silencing machinery. High‐throughput sequencing of polyadenylated mRNAs (RNA‐seq) has enabled us to identify novel spliced HCMV transcripts and hundreds of human genes that are alternatively spliced upon infection. Our findings will enable the elucidation of improved therapeutic targets in the near future.This work was supported by grants from the U.S. National Institutes of Health (HG004659 and GM084317), the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (RB3‐05219), and the Stem Cell Program at UCSD.
Expression, Purification and Crystallization of an Essential Protein from M. tuberculosis Using a Non‐Pathogenic Mycobacterium
Authors: Rutter Maxwell Wiley , Patwell Ryan , Chavan Tanmay 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveTo define the structure of an essential acyl‐carrier protein from M. tuberculosis through X‐ray crystallography by expressing and purifying recombinant DNA in non‐pathogenic mycobacteria.MethodsUsing the non‐pathogenic Mycobacteria smegmatis, the protein was produced by growing the bacteria in an auto‐induction media via the Studier method (Studier, W., Biology Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973, USA. studier@bnl.gov). Purification of protein involved lysis through French‐style press and a nickel‐nitriloacetic acid column (Ni‐ NTA). With further purification performed through size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC).ResultsCrystallization trials were performed using the sitting‐drop vapor diffusion method and initial conditions were found from the index screens PEG, PEG II, JCSG+ (Qiagen, Valencia, CA, USA) and from index screens MCSG I and II (Microlytic, Woburn, MA, USA). Molecular weight determination was performed on SEC and mass spectroscopy. X‐ray diffraction is currently being conducted at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory.ConclusionThe Rv0100‐encoded acyl‐carrier protein was successfully cloned, expressed purified to homogeneity and crystallized using standard techniques. Research is supported by the Institute for Tuberculosis Research – University of Illinois at Chicago.
Storage capacity of the human breast
Authors: Kent Jacqueline Coral , Williams Tracey , Sakalidis Vanessa , Hartmann Peter E , Lai Ching Tat 
Published: June 2021

Lactating breasts can increase their capacity to produce milk to meet the demand of the infants. The breast milk storage capacity (SC) is related to milk production (MP) in term mothers in established lactation. This study investigates the SC and MP in early lactation of preterm and term mothers.Nineteen breast expressing preterm and sixteen breastfeeding mothers collected milk samples and measured their milk production by either weighing the bottle with an electronic kitchen scale or the baby with BabyWeigh scales (Medela AG) at home before and after each breastfeed or breast expression over a 24‐h period between days 10 and 43 postpartum. The 24‐h MP and SC were calculated (Kent et al., 2003).

24‐h Milk production (ml) (mean±SD)
Breast milk storage capacity (ml) (mean±SD)

Left
Right
Left
Right

Preterm
398 ± 182
388 ± 198
142 ± 56
133 ± 68

Term
382 ± 142
431 ± 122
170 ± 66
174 ± 44

Mean MP and SC were not significantly different between breasts or between preterm and term mothers.The SC of both preterm and term mothers was positively related (p=0.0001) to the MP of their breasts.Despite premature delivery, SC and MP of preterm mothers’ breasts can reach to similar level as the term mothers’ breasts.Research Support: Medela AG, Switzerland.
Factors associated with breastfeeding initiation and duration in term healthy infants
Authors: Kent Jacqueline Coral , Perrella Sharon , Williams Julie , Nathan Elizabeth , Fenwick Jennifer , Hartmann Peter , Geddes Donna 
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with breastfeeding initiation and duration in term healthy infants.Ninety‐two newborn infants were followed up over a 6 month period. Reasons for initiating and continuing breastfeeding and incidence of breastfeeding challenges were recorded. Chi square and Fisher exact tests were used to compare breastfeeding difficulties in the first 3 months between women still breastfeeding and those not at 6 months after discharge.Reasons for breastfeeding related to positive infant and maternal effects as well as moral reasons, with most women citing several. Positive infant effects were most frequently cited for initiating and continuing breastfeeding. Positive maternal effects were cited with increasing frequency, while moral reasons reduced in frequency over time. Incidence of breastfeeding difficulties reduced from 40% at 2 weeks to 34% at 3 months. Perceived low milk supply at 6 weeks (p = 0.005) and 3 months (p = 0.011) was significantly associated with not breastfeeding at 6 months.An understanding of the positive infant effects of breastfeeding contributes to women's motivation to breastfeed. Perceived low milk supply has an impact on early weaning, yet measures of breast milk production are not routinely made.Funded by Women and Infants Research Foundation and Western Australian Nurses Memorial Charitable Trust.
Validation of sonographic methods for monitoring gastric volume in preterm infants
Authors: Kent Jacqueline Coral , Perrella Sharon L , Hepworth Anna R , Simmer Karen , Hartmann Peter E , Geddes Donna 
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to validate 4 methods of estimating stomach volume from sonographic images for monitoring gastric volume changes in preterm infants.Twenty four preterm infants born <34 weeks gestation were recruited. Ultrasound images of the gastric antrum and stomach were recorded at four time points during an intra‐gastric tube feed. Antral cross‐sectional area (ACSA) and three estimates of stomach volume were validated for intra‐ and inter‐rater agreement. Changes in ACSA and stomach volume were compared to the feed volume delivered.Estimating stomach volume as a spheroid best matched the delivered feed volume, and reliably estimated the volume. There was no relationship between ACSA and feed volume.Serial sonographic imaging of the stomach provides a reliable, accurate and well‐tolerated method of monitoring gastric emptying in preterm infants.This research was financially supported by the Women and Infants Research Foundation and an unrestricted research grant from Medela AG.
Dietary Intake, Physical activity and Overweight and Obesity in Mexican American Adolescents
Authors: Zhu Yeyi , Hernandez Ladia , Dong Yongquan , Wilkinson Anna , Strong Larkin , Bondy Melissa L. , Spitz Margaret R. , Forman Michele R. 
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between dietary intake, physical activity (PA) and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of Mexican American (MA) adolescents. We conducted a period cross‐sectional analysis with 130 MA adolescents aged 12–17 y. Dietary intake was collected from three 24‐hour dietary recalls throughout one year. Anthropometrics and demographics were assessed at home visit. Overall, 39 of the boys (62.9%) and 41 of the girls (60.3%) were overweight/obese. PA levels were not significantly different across BMI categories. Obese adolescents consumed fewer carbohydrates and grains, and had higher energy density from protein than healthy weight adolescents, after adjustment for gender, energy intake and PA. Using logistic regression models, we report that higher risk of overweight/obesity was associated with nativity (U.S. born versus Mexico) in boys (odds ratio [OR] = 6.81; 95% CI: 1.21, 38.20) and higher consumption of dietary fiber in girls (OR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.49); lower risk was associated with higher energy density of carbohydrate in boys (OR = 0.90; 95% CI: 0.81, 0.99). In conclusion, nativity was a positive predictor and higher energy density of carbohydrate was a negative predictor of overweight/obesity in boys; whereas higher intake of dietary fiber was a risk factor in girls. Our findings indicate that preventive interventions in MA need to be tailored by gender.Grant Funding Source : NCI CA105203
Body Weight Misperception Patterns and Their Association with Health Related Behaviors among Adolescents in South Korea
Authors: Lim Hyunjung , Wang Youfa 
Published: June 2021

AimsExamine body weight misperception and its association with eating and physical activity behaviors among 12–18–y–old Korean adolescents.MethodsThe 2009 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web‐based Survey data from 72,399 adolescents were used. Weight status was assessed using BMI calculated based on self‐reported weight and height. Multinomial logistic models were fit to examine the associations controlling for covariates.ResultsWeight underestimation and overestimation rate were 23.4% and 26.8%, respectively. Boys had higher weight underestimation rate than girls (30.3% vs. 15.6%) and lower overestimation (21.3% vs. 33.0%). Especially among high family income and parental education girls, overestimation rate was 41.0%. Compared to those with accurate weight perception, boys and girls who underestimate their weight status were more likely to have an unhealthy diet as indicated by significantly (p<0.05) higher daily intakes of soda (OR=1.1), fast‐foods (OR=1.2), and snack (OR=1.1) (≥once/day). Girls (but not boys) who overestimate their weight status were more likely to have more screen time (≥2hrs/day) and be stressed and depressed.ConclusionsOver half of Korean adolescents had weight misperception; and there are considerable sex and socioeconomic status differences. Weight misperception is associated with health related behaviors compared to peers with accurate weight perception.Grant Funding Source: NIH U54 HD070725‐01
Increased BMI is associated with lower iron status and increased inflammation and oxidative stress in postpartum women
Authors: Jorgensen Josh M , Yang Zhenyu , Lonnerdal Bo , Chantry Caroline J , Allen Lindsay H , Dewey Kathryn G 
Published: June 2021

The relationship of body mass index (BMI) to markers of iron status, inflammation, and oxidative stress in postpartum women is not well documented. We examined associations between BMI and markers of iron status (hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, hepcidin, and transferrin saturation (TfSat)), inflammation (C‐reactive protein (CRP) and α‐1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP)), and oxidative stress (isoprostane and 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxyguanosine (8OHdG)) in 114 lactating women enrolled in a randomized placebo‐controlled trial of iron‐containing prenatal vitamin‐mineral supplements. Blood samples were collected before and after 3 mo of supplementation. At baseline (x̄ = 13.8 d postpartum), BMI was positively correlated with CRP (r=0.21, P=0.03) and AGP (r=0.29, P<0.01), and negatively correlated with Hb (r=−0.20, P=0.03), ferritin (r=−0.35, P<0.001), and TfSat (r=−0.24, P=0.01). At the final visit (n=95; x̄ = 17.3 wk postpartum), BMI was positively correlated with CRP (r=0.48, P<0.0001), AGP (r=0.60, P<0.0001), and isoprostane (r=0.32, P<0.01), and negatively correlated with ferritin (r=−0.27, P<0.01) and TfSat (r=−0.27, P<0.01). There was a trend toward a negative correlation between BMI and hepcidin at the final time point (r=−0.19, P=0.067). Higher BMI is related to lower iron status and increased inflammation and oxidative stress in postpartum women.Grant Funding Source : Center for Health and Nutrition Research at UC Davis
Comparison between self‐reported nutrient intake from 24‐h recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), at baseline, among Spanish overweight and obese participants in a metabolic trial
Authors: Soto-Méndez María-José , Martìnez-de-Victoria Emilio , Lobo Gabriela , Boza Julio , Kellerhals Michelle , Pérez-de-la-Cruz Antonio , Gil Angel , Mesa Maria-Dolores , Aguilera Concepción-María 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundDietary intake during metabolic trials has been controlled using one or another assessment method. The luxury of comparison of mutual results is rarely available.ObjectiveTo compare data between self‐reported nutrient intake from 24‐h recall and FFQ at baseline among overweight and obese Spanish participants in a metabolic trial.Methods151 volunteers (age 18–65 y) were enrolled in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, crossover trial. Subjects were interviewed by 2 standardized nutritionists in a baseline 24‐h recall and a FFQ.ResultsAt a group level, median FFQ‐derived energy was estimated as higher than that with 24h‐recall (2600 vs 1874 kcal) as were carbohydrates (273 vs 206 g), proteins (117 vs 87 g) and fats (116 vs 81 g), respectively. All differences were significant at p<0.05. At the individual level, 83% of subjects reported more energy on FFQ and 17% more on 24‐h recall interviews. Regarding macronutrients, 77% of subjects for carbohydrates, 81% for protein and 84% for fat reported greater intakes with the FFQ approach.ConclusionAs expected, results from this study indicate that FFQ overestimated dietary intake in comparison to the 24‐h recall.This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01290250 and it is funded by The Coca‐Cola Company.
Evaluating a promotor training to prevent obesity among Latino preschoolers
Authors: Reynolds Stephanie M , Jara Eddy A , Fajardo Alexander 
Published: June 2021

The food and social environment play an important role in influencing obesity prevalence during the preschool years (2–5 years old). Approximately 25% of US preschoolers are overweight or obese. The prevalence of overweight Latino preschoolers is almost 50% higher than White preschoolers. Using a promotor approach is a promising strategy to address obesigenic factors in home and neighborhood settings. There is a need for systematic evaluation of promotor training curricula. The authors pilot‐tested a two‐phase Latino toddler obesity prevention curriculum designed to build promotor capacity to create healthier home and neighborhood environments. The first phase of the curriculum provided 19 promotores with group facilitation skills, while the second phase focused on improving knowledge, perceived relevance and self‐efficacy in order to implement home and neighborhood strategies. Pre‐and post‐surveys were administered before and after each phase and process evaluation data was collected. The phase one curriculum resulted in significant gains in self‐efficacy and group facilitation. Phase two results showed significant gains in knowledge and positive shifts in self‐efficacy. By assessing the learning gains of participating promotores, this project addressed the lack of field‐tested promotor training curricula.Funded by LLU Center for Health Research and LLU Office of Public Health Practice.
Nutrition Status of Children in Rural and Urban Areas in Ecuador
Authors: Katuli Sozina Dora , Natto Zuhair , Beeson Lawrence W , Cordero-MacIntyre Zaida R 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveTo determine the effect of geographical location on nutrition status of children in Ecuador.Methods171 school‐aged children (ages 7–15) were assessed using height‐for‐age (stunting), weight‐for‐age (underweight), and BMI‐for‐age indices based on the World Health Organization reference standards. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis and percent body fat calculated using the Lohman's equation. Independent t‐test, multiple and logistic linear regression were performed on nutrition indices.ResultsThe overall prevalence of under‐nutrition (<−2 z score) were significantly higher in urban areas (p<0.001), with 11.4 percent of children stunted and 1.8 percent underweight. In the rural areas children were only mildly stunted and underweight (below −1 z score). Mean z score indices for both height‐for‐age and weight‐for‐age were found to be significantly lower among urban children than for rural children (p<0.001). When adjusted for age and sex, living in urban areas had a negative influence on height for age (regression coeff= −.811, p <0.001). Urban children were also 4 times more likely of becoming mildly stunted (OR=3.95% CL 1.818, 8.448) and 3 times more likely of being mildly underweight (OR=3. 95% CL 1.241, 7.551).ConclusionLiving in urban areas of Ecuador is a predisposing factor to poor nutrition among children.Sponsored by Loma Linda University.
Self efficacy scale for fruits and vegetables consumption in teachers of Mexican elementary schools
Authors: del Carmen Morales Ruan Maria , Levy Teresa Shamah , Castellanos Claudia Amaya , Coronel Araceli Salazar , Aguilar Alejandra Jimenez 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveTo assess the impact of a healthy eating and physical activity guide strategy (Nutrición en movimiento) in elementary schools over the teachers self‐efficacy in order to increase the fruits and vegetables consumption.Materials and methodsThe present study was conducted in 60 elementary schools of the Mexican State of Mexico; 30 were included in the intervention group and 30 in the control, a total of 458 teachers were studied, 239 from the intervention group and 219 from the control. Teachers self efficacy to increase the fruits and vegetables consumption was evaluated at the beginning of the study. Healthy feeding and physical activity workshops were conducted. Four months after the intervention another set of questionnaires was applied. A longitudinal panel model (using General Estimating Equations, GEE) was used for evaluating intervention and time effects on auto‐efficacy, corrected by age and sex.ResultsSelf‐efficacy Initial mean score was 79.82 ± 7.07 in the intervention group and 81.53± 6.72 in the control group. There exist a significant effect of intervention and time, with increase of 1.28 (p=0.03)and 1.3 points (p=0.00) in the self efficacy scale.ConclusionStrategy showed its efficacy by increasing the teacher's capability to generate changes focused on increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Obesity and premature gallstone disease: results from a cross‐sectional study of over 510,000 youths
Authors: Koebnick Corinna , Smith Ning , Black Mary Helen , Porter Amy H , Richie Bradley A , Hudson Sharon M , Gililland Deborah Y , Jacobsen Steven J , Longstreth George F 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveTo investigate the association between childhood and adolescent obesity and the risk of gallstones as a potential effect modification by oral contraceptive use in girls.MethodsFor this population‐based cross‐sectional study, measured weight and height, oral contraceptive use, and diagnosis of cholelithiasis were extracted from electronic medical records of 510,816 patients aged 10–19 years enrolled in an integrated health plan 2007–2009.ResultsWe identified 766 patients with gallstones. The adjusted OR of gallstones for under/normal weight (=reference), overweight, moderate obesity, and extreme obesity in boys was 1.00, 1.46, 1.83, and 3.10 (95% CI 1.99–4.83) and in girls 1.00, 2.73, 5.75, and 7.71 (95% CI 6.13–9.71), respectively (P for interaction sex x weightclass <0.001). Among girls, oral contraceptive use was associated with higher odds for gallstones (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.66–2.40). Girls who used oral contraceptives were at higher odds for gallstones than their counterparts in the same weight class who did not use oral contraceptives (P for interaction weight class x oral contraceptive use = 0.023).ConclusionsDue to the shift towards extreme childhood obesity, especially in minority children, pediatricians can expect to face increasing numbers of children and adolescents affected by gallstone disease.
Effect of TV Exposure and Advertising on Food Intake in India: an Experimental ad‐libitum Study during Snacking Time
Authors: Gregori Dario , Gulati Achal , Zobec Federica 
Published: June 2021

TV and advertising are suspected to promote children's overeating and overweight. Evidence from cross‐sectional / behavioural experimental studies are available for USA, Europe and Australia, whereas no such data exists for emerging countries like India.Therefore 120 children (balanced according to gender and age groups 3–5, 6–8) have been randomized in a school facility in Delhi to be exposed to TV or not during an afternoon snacking time. They were asked to eat at libitum for 20 minutes. In the TV group, children were moreover randomized to 3 increasing levels of exposure to commercial advertising (1, 2 or 3 times). Advertising was related to the snacks offered; all children received the same lunch meal.In the control group (no TV, no adv) children ate an average of 116.08 Kcal (108.59 – 223.99 95% C.I). See linear effects on Kcal eaten in the Table.No significant differences have been found according to TV and increased exposures to advertising. In India, etiological pathways related to children obesity might be worth reconsidering the role of behavioural interactions of children with TV and advertising.Study supported by unrestricted Grants of Prochild ONLUS and the University of Padova.
Impact of Korean pine nut oil on weight gain and immune responses in high‐fat diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Park Soyoung , Lim Meehong , Shin Sunhye , Han Sung Nim 
Published: June 2021

Korean pine nut oil (PNO) has been reported to have beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and appetite control. Effects of PNO on weight gain and immune responses were compared with those of soybean oil (SBO) in high‐fat diet‐induced obese mice. 5‐wk‐old C57BL mice were fed control diets containing 10% energy fat from PNO or SBO (PC, SC) or high‐fat diets with 45% energy fat from 10% PNO or SBO and 35% lard (P10, S10), 20% PNO or SBO and 25% lard (P20, S20), or 30% PNO or SBO and 15% lard (P30, S30) for 12 wks. Proliferative responses of splenocytes to Con A, Con A‐stimulated production of IL‐2 and LPS‐stimulated production of IL‐6 and IL‐1β by splenocytes were determined. Consumption of P20 and P30 resulted in lower weight gain compared with S20 and S30 (17.6 g in P20 vs. 20.6 g in S20; 16.9 g in P30 vs. 20.1 g in S30). White adipose tissue weights were lower in PC and P30 compared with SC and S30 (2.2 g in PC vs. 3.1 g in SC; 4.2 g in P30 vs. 5.3 g in S30). There were no significant differences in lymphocyte proliferation, IL‐2 and IL‐6 production between SBO and PNO groups. IL‐1β levels were higher in P30 compared with S30 (82.3 pg/ml in P30 vs. 52.5 pg/ml in S30). Consumption of PNO reduced weight gain in obese mice fed high‐fat diets, but this effect did not result in an overall improvement of immune responses.Supported by the Korea Research Foundation grant funded by the Korea government (KRF‐2010‐0024878).