bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Which Handgrip Strength Cut‐offs Best Predict Low Physical Function in Older Adults?
Authors: Murphy Caoileann H , McMorrow Aoibheann M , Elroy Kate Mc , Cummins Helen , McGowan Maureen J , Rafferty Sheena , De Vito Giuseppe , McCarthy Sinead N , Corish Clare A , Egan Brendan , Roche Helen M 
Published: November 2023

IntroductionThe progressive loss of muscle mass and function with age (sarcopenia) and the age‐related loss of strength (dynapenia) are major causes of disability among the elderly1. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a quick and cost effective means of assessing muscle strength and is easily employed in clinical practice. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older Persons has recommended two different sets of cut‐off points for the identification of low grip strength. One set are specific to sex only and the other set are specific to both sex and body mass index (BMI). However, it is currently unclear which set of cut‐off points are most useful for clinicians in predicting low physical function in older adults.AimTo determine if the sex/BMI‐based HGS cut‐offs are better at predicting poor physical function than the cut‐offs based on sex alone.MethodsIn a cross‐sectional analysis, anthropometry, HGS and physical performance were assessed in 407 community‐dwelling adults aged 65 years or over (mean(SD) age 77(8)y, BMI 27.9(4.5)kg/m2). HGS was measured via a handgrip dynamometer and physical performance by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Linear and binary logistic regression were performed to examine which cut‐off points were better predictors of SPPB performance and multiple regression was used to assess the influence of age, sex and BMI on HGS.ResultsThe percentage of subjects classified as dynapenic was 52.1% and 49.6% via the sex‐based and the sex/BMI‐based cut‐offs, respectively. Age and sex were significant predictors of HGS (β = −.42, p < .001 for age and β = .53, p < .001 for sex) but BMI was not (p > .05). The sex/BMI‐based cut‐offs explained a similar amount of variance in SPPB score compared to the sex‐based cut‐offs (24% vs. 23%). However subjects classified as having weak HGS by the sex‐based cut‐offs were more likely to be classified as having low SPPB performance than those classified as having weak HGS by the sex/BMI‐based cut offs (OR = 4.22, p < .001 for sex‐based cut‐offs vs. OR = 1.89, p = .07 for sex/BMI‐based cut‐offs).ConclusionBMI is not a significant predictor of HGS and, counter to our hypothesis, the sex‐based cut‐offs better predicted low physical performance compared with the sex/BMI‐based cut‐offs in a cohort of community‐dwelling older adults in Ireland.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Health Research Board through the Joint Programming Initiative ‐ A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life (JPI HDHL) Knowledge Hub on Malnutrition in the Elderly (MaNuEL).
Dietary patterns associated with incidence of metabolic syndrome and its components
Authors: Perez‐Rodriguez Marcela , Ramirez‐Palacios Paula , Salmeron Jorge , Talavera Juan 
Published: November 2023

IntroductionMetabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of biochemical and physiological abnormalities associated with the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. MetS is present when three or more of the following five criteria are met: waist ≥ 102 cm in men and ≥ 88 cm in women, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dl, HDL‐C <40 mg/dl in men and < 50 mg/dl in women, systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg and fasting glucose ≥ 110 mg/dl. Diet is one of the main risk factor for MetS and the study of regional dietary patterns is necessary to develop ad hoc recommendations for populations.ObjectiveStudy the effect of dietary patterns on the incidence of metabolic syndrome and its components.MethodsWe present a cohort study with a baseline measurement in 2004–06 and a follow up 6 years later. A total of 557 NW and 489 OW/OB healthy Mexican adults were included. Fasting glucose, TG, HDL‐C, WC and BP were measured, physical activity (PA) and diet data were self‐reported. Using principal components analysis (PCA), we identified dietary patterns. PCA provides a score for each dietary pattern for all participants; scores were classified in tertiles and adherence to each pattern was determined according to each pattern score tertile. Logistic regression analysis was performed with MetS and each of its components as dependent variables, including only subjects free of metabolic disease at the beginning of the study.ResultsFour dietary patterns were identified. There was no association between any dietary pattern and metabolic syndrome, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL or blood pressure, nonetheless. After adjusting for relevant covariates, a high adherence to the dietary pattern with high loads for artificial sweeteners, wine and beer had a higher risk (OR=1.9 CI95% 1.1, 3.4) for altered glucose than a low adherence to that same pattern; and a high adherence to the dietary pattern with high loads for rice, corn and beans had a lower risk (OR=0.57 CI95% 0.33, 0.97) for altered glucose than a low adherence to that same pattern.ConclusionTraditional Mexican dietary pattern (rice, corn and beans) is associated with lower odds of developing altered glucose in a follow up period of 6 years.
Caloric Restriction Protects Against Hepatic Oncogenesis
Authors: Ploeger Jonathan , Mashek Douglas 
Published: November 2023

In developed countries, obesity and its comorbidity non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease are well recognized risk factors for liver cancer, the sixth most common and second most deadly cancer globally. Currently, the only treatment option for hepatic cancer is liver resection or transplantation, procedures which are often contraindicated for patients with fatty liver disease. Caloric restriction (CR) has been shown in several animal models to extend disease free life span and reduce certain types of cancer. However, no studies have evaluated the effects of CR on hepatic cancer initiation. Here, we show for the first time, that restricting calories to 70% of ad libitum fed control groups (i.e. CR) provides robust protection from hepatic oncogenesis in response to the carcinogen diethylnitrosamine (DEN). As expected, CR completely prevented hepatic tumor formation and significantly reduced body weight gain and liver weights. Serum analysis showed no difference in free fatty acid concentration while CR mice tended to have increased ketone body concentrations suggesting increased fatty acid oxidation. Histological analyses performed by a blinded pathologist confirmed gross morphologic findings, demonstrating CR drastically reduced steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and immune cell infiltration. Additionally, pathological analysis of tumor and adjacent non‐transformed tissue confirmed CR completely ablated tumor formation and significantly reduced internal foci development. Immunohistochemical analysis of the proliferative marker Ki‐67 in non‐transformed tissue demonstrated CR greatly reduced positively stained nuclei compared to ad libitum fed mice. Collectively, our data demonstrate CR is a robust deterrent of hepatic oncogenesis and the co‐morbidities often attributed to liver cancer. Given the rise in incidence of HCC in developed countries, results from this study provide an important step in identifying translational strategies for therapeutic intervention and clinical prevention of liver cancer.Support or Funding InformationThis work is supported through an institutional grant generously provided by the “Healthy Foods Healthy Lives Institute” at the University of Minnesota
Eligibility of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients for a Phase 1b Clinical Trial Evaluating Turmeric Supplementation
Authors: Strom Meghan , Alfafara Chelsea , DeSalvo Janel , McCallum Mia , Hopkins Laura , Pace Thaddeus , Chow Sherry , Levinsky Dale , Ruderman Eric , Billheimer Dean , Funk Janet 
Published: November 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that primarily targets the joints, leading to synovial inflammation. Turmeric supplementation markedly reduces joint inflammation in pre‐clinical models of RA, suggesting a potential benefit in reducing joint inflammation in patients with RA. Here, we evaluate the percentage of patients eligible for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of turmeric dietary supplements in RA, evaluating tolerability and pharmacokinetics. Recruitment materials were distributed in both rheumatology offices and community settings. Study entry eligibility criteria included having active disease (presence of inflamed and/or swollen joints), no current biologic use, as well as other health and medication criteria. Individuals were screened for basic eligibility through a telephone interview followed by a more comprehensive in‐clinic screening. In total, 200 patients were referred between September 2015 through October 2016; the majority (85%, n= 170) were self‐referred from community‐based recruitment strategies. From a pool of 171 (86%) who completed telephone screening, 40% (n=68) were disqualified from participation due to geographical location or having no clinical diagnosis of RA. Of the remaining 103 referrals, only 4% of local RA patients (n= 4) met all eligibility criteria; 15 (15%) discontinued the screening process and 84 (82%) were ineligible. Primary reasons for ineligibility included current or failed biologics (37%, n= 31) and no active disease (18%, n= 15). Other reasons included a serious comorbid medical condition (14%, n=12), unstable medication doses (13%, n= 11), high non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory use (12%, n=10) or a history of malignancy (6%, n= 5). A greater proportion of patients referred from rheumatology practices passed telephone screening than those self‐referred from the community (20%, n= 6 vs. 8%, n= 14). Few of the patients screened met all eligibility requirements. Although uncommon, some patients did not wish to participate in the trial due to the possibility of receiving a placebo, as well as having to discontinue current turmeric supplement use. In summary, recruitment strategies that are primarily community‐based are inefficient in enrolling subjects who meet eligibility criteria for a RCT of turmeric dietary supplements in RA.Support or Funding InformationNIH (NCCIH): R34AT007837‐03
Inhibition of H1299 Human Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation and Survival by Carnosic Acid is Associated with Akt Inhibition and AMPK Activation.
Authors: Tsiani Evangelia Litsa , Moore Jessy 
Published: November 2023

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents a very aggressive form of lung cancer and is characterized by resistance to chemo‐ and radiotherapy thus, finding new ways to inhibit NSCLC cell proliferation and survival is very important. Carnosic acid (CA) is a phytochemical found in rosemary, a frequently used herb which is regarded as safe for consumption. Phytochemicals represent an important opportunity to explore new agents with chemotherapeutic potential and to understand their novel and potentially relevant mechanisms of action. In vitro and in vivo evidence exists supporting anticancer effects of CA however, no studies have explored the role of CA in H1299 NSCLC cells and much is still unknown about its mechanism of action. The objectives of the present study were to examine the effects of CA on H1299 cell proliferation and survival, and to investigate its effects on the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐Akt, AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways which regulate cell growth and survival. Cell proliferation was measured by crystal violet assay, clonogenic assays were performed to examine the effects of CA on cell survival, and immunoblotting with phospho‐specific antibodies was performed to examine signaling events. CA dose‐dependently inhibited H1299 cell proliferation. Significant inhibition of cell proliferation and survival was seen with concentrations of 25 and 50μM CA. At 50μM CA inhibited Akt activity and enhanced ERK and AMPK activity in H1299 cells, without affecting total levels of each protein. Our data suggest that CA may have potent anticancer properties in NSCLC and warrants further investigation of its use as a chemotherapeutic.Support or Funding InformationBrock University Advancement Fund (BUAF) grant to ET.
Effect of an educational group intervention in self‐care behavior for patients with type 2 diabetes on HbA1c and postprandial capilar glucose
Authors: Castillo Judith Juarez , Avendaño Carlos , Carriedo Alicia Parra , Izeta Ericka Ileana Escalante 
Published: November 2023

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, degenerative and progressive condition that includes a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia secondary to a partial or total defect of insulin secretion or action. In Mexico, T2DM represents a disabling disease at a public health problem level due to the micro and macrovascular complications associated with the disease and poor glycemic control (HbA1c). The Health Center “Centro Graber” in Hidalgo, Mexico has a group of patients (n=20, 26 – 72 years old) living with T2DM in which some educational needs in self‐care behaviors were observed.Aim of studyAssess the benefits of an educational program in self‐care behaviors in HbA1c and postprandial capilar glucose.MethodsHbA1c (boronate fluorescence quencing technology) and postprandial capilar glucose values were measured at “Centro Graber”. Adherence was assessed by the attendance of the subjects.ResultsAttendance of patients was high (99.33%). Significant and clinically relevant changes in HbA1c (−1.42%, p=0.039) and postprandial capilar glucose (−28.67 mg/dl, p=0.058) were observed.ConclusionsGroup educational programs in self‐care behaviors may be an effective strategy when combined with medical treatment for improvements in glycemic control (HbA1c) and postprandial capilar glucose in patients with T2DM who attend the Health Center “Centro Graber”.
Determining the Association of Youth's Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors with Weight Status
Authors: Taylor Erin M , Keim Kathryn S. , Mullen Mary C. , Sowa Diane C. , Lui Karen J. 
Published: November 2023

IntroductionOver the past decade the weight status of children in the United States has been increasing, making it an urgent health problem. Physical activity and screen time behaviors have been associated with the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. Recommendations for these behaviors were set by the Expert Committee in order to prevent and treat overweight and obesity.ObjectiveTo determine the association between the youth's demographic, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors with weight‐status using items assessed on the Child Nutrition and Physical Activity (CNPA) screener.DesignA cross sectional study was conducted using a retrospective chart review method.MethodsThe CNPA screener was given to all parents who came to the Rush University Pediatric Primary Clinic between 2012–2015. Responses to questions regarding physical activity, sedentary behavior, and parent perception of youth's weight status were assessed. Chi square analysis was used to determine the association between demographic characteristic, physical activity, sedentary behaviors, weight status, and weight status perception. Forward Wald logistic regression analysis was conducted with odds of being overweight, obese, and severe obese compared to healthy weight. All procedures were approved by IRB.ResultsThe sample consisted of 2,230, 2–18 year old children who were 51% male, 60% non‐Hispanic Black, and 61% of a healthy BMI percentile. Using forward Wald logistic regression analysis, 9 variables were entered into the model‐age, sex, race, meeting physical activity recommendation, meeting media recommendation, whether a TV was in the bedroom, and accuracy of weight perception. The model was statistically significant χ2 (6, N=2079) = 1093.37, p <.001, indicating that the model was able to distinguish between healthy weight children and those who were overweight, obese, or severe obese. The model explained 40.9% to 55.5% of the variance in weight status and correctly classified 83.5% of cases. Increasing age (1.14 OR (95% CI 1.10–1.17)) (p<.001) and being Hispanic 1.72 OR (95% CI 1.30–2.26) (p<.001) increased the odds of being overweight, obese, or severe obese. Meeting physical activity recommendation (0.60 OR (95% CI 0.45–0.81)) (p=.001) media recommendation 0.76 OR (95% CI 0.57–0.996) (p=.047), not having a TV in the bedroom (0.67 OR (95% CI 0.51–0.87)) (p=.002), and parent accurate weight perception (0.02 OR (95% CI 0.01–0.03)) (p<.001) decreased the odds of being overweight, obese, or severe obese.ConclusionThe odds of being overweight or obese were higher if the child was older or Hispanic and lower if they met the physical activity, media, no TV in bedroom recommendations and had accurate perception of weight status. Meeting the recommendation for all physical activity and sedentary behaviors entered in to the model decreased the odds of being overweight or obese.Support or Funding InformationDepartmental funding
Novel vitamin D‐Nanoemulsion improves testicular function of vitamin D deficient rats
Authors: Alruwaili Nawaf Wanas , Abulmeaty Mahmoud M.A. , Almajwal Ali M , Elsadek Mohammed F , Razak Suhail , Andrade J.E. 
Published: November 2023

Background and aimVitamin D (VD) deficiency is associated with disturbed reproductive functions in male rats which might be ameliorated by vitamin D (VD) supplementation. In this study, the efficacy of a novel VD carrier, developed by sonication and pH‐shifting of pea protein isolate (nanoemulsion), in improving testicular function of VD‐deficient rats was investigated.MethodsThirty weaned male albino rats (92.62±13.61g) were divided into 2 groups. Group I (n=10) was fed a synthetic AIN‐93G diet while Group II (n=20) was fed a customized AIN‐93G diet with carbohydrate 59.3%, protein 18.1%, fat 7.1%, fiber 4.8%, VD (0–50 IU/kg) and calcium (5.1 g/kg) for 6 weeks. Hypovitaminosis D was confirmed by taking blood samples from the lateral tail vein. Rats in group I were used as a sufficient control (SC group), while those of group II were further subdivided into two groups (n=10 each): a nanoemulsion without VD deficient control (DC group) and a nanoemulsion with VD treatment (DT group). Animals were treated for 2 weeks with a gavage dose (1 mL of 27 μg/mL) every other day. Body weights were measured daily. Plasma 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25OHVD) and testosterone (T) were measured by ELISA. After euthanasia, testis were isolated, sectioned, stained and examined under light microscope. Image J was used to analyze the selected regions of interest (ROIs).ResultsVD deficient diets resulted in low serum 25OHVD levels in SC vs. deficient groups (36.8±9.1 vs. 15.9± 5.8 μg/mL, p<0.001), but no changes in body weight. VD deficient rats showed marked reduction of T (DC vs. SC, 0.83±0.22 vs. 3.06±0.74 ng/mL, p<0.001). Serum 25OHVD was not significantly correlated with T levels (r=0.408, p=0.18). Histology showed a significant reduction in the Leydig cell mass and degenerative changes in all levels of the spermatogenesis (Figure a and b). After treatment, DT group showed 6‐fold increase in serum T in comparison with that of DC group and double that of SC (7.30±1.18 vs. 0.83±022 and 3.06±0.74 ng/mL respectively, p<0.0001 for all). Microscopically, selected ROIs showed marked improvement of germinal epithelium and all stages of spermatogenesis, together with an increase in Leydig cell count.ConclusionsOral VD supplementation using pea protein nanoemulsion could improve serum T levels and ameliorate VD deficiency‐induced histopathological changes in testis. Future research should investigate the underlying mechanisms.Support or Funding InformationThis project is funded by the national plan of science, technology and innovation, King Abdul‐Aziz City for Science & Technology (KACST) project no: 12‐NAN 2576‐02
Effect of Enteral Docosahexaenoic Acid on Retinopathy of Prematurity During Their Hospital Stay
Authors: Bernabe‐Garcia Mariela , Dominguez‐Vallejo Paola , Cruz‐Reynoso Leonardo , Villavicencio‐Torres Astrid , Villegas‐Silva Raul , Inda‐Icaza Patricia 
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTIONThe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a proliferative vasculopaty of the retina; in 2001, the WHO estimated near of 50,000 children in the world with childhood blindness was related with. In Mexico is the first preventable cause. There is no effective treatment for ROP. The docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has demonstrated to reduce inflammation, neovascularization and obliteration of blood vessels of the retina in experimental models4, and in 2 studies using parenteral nutrition (PN) lipid emulsion. However, PN may cause complications such as colestasis and sepsis catheter‐related. To our knowledge, there is no study that evaluates enteral DHA on ROP.OBJECTIVETo evaluate the effect of enteral DHA on development of retinopathy of prematurity and their severity during hospital stay of preterm infants.METODOLOGYDouble‐blind, clinical trial. Preterm neonates were recruited with birth weight <1500g but equal or higher than 1000g DHA group received 75 mg of DHA/kg/day (Life's DHA, Martek Life Enriched®) and control group sunflower oil, throughout 14 days by enteral feeding. They are blinded as A and B codes. We did an interim analyses on ROP incidence and severe ROP (stage 3 with or without plus, or other stage with plus). Groups were compared with relative risk (RR), Fisher's Exact, T‐Student or U‐Mann‐Whitney tests, as appropriate. Logistic regression was applied to adjust by confounders. Clinical‐Trial ID: NCT02683317RESULTSWe recruited 90 patients, 45 from each group. There were no differences between groups in total ROP incidence (36% vs. 42%, p= 0.333) nor its RR=0.842 (95%IC 0.500–1.418). Likewise on severe ROP incidence (81% vs. 58%, p= 0.132) or its RR= 0.445 (95%IC 0.141–1.404). Interestingly, A group shown a borderline reduction in the probability of severe ROP after adjust by NSAIDs, steroids, gestational age at birth, duration with tissue saturation higher than 95%, events of apnea, tissue DHA content in erythrocytes and presence of respiratory distress syndrome (OR adj= 0.05; 95%IC 0.002–1.127; p=0.060; R2 model=61.2%).CONCLUSIONThe preliminary results suggest that enteral DHA at dose of 75 mg/kg/day might have a prophylactic effect on the incidence of severe ROP.Support or Funding InformationThis project received a grant from CONACYT SALUD‐2015‐2‐261765