bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of Linking Immigrants with Nutrition Knowledge (LINK) initiative on improving cultural competency skills among nutrition and dietetic students in Canada
Authors: Vatanparast Hassan , Henry Carol , Mulhall Stephanie 
Published: November 2023

BackgroundThe health of culturally diverse newcomers to Canada declines rapidly in the first few years post migration primarily due to the onset of chronic diseases which is often related to poor dietary habits. On the other hand, nutrition and dietetic students usually do not have the chance to be exposed to other cultures to increase their cultural competency skills and provide nutritional advice while dealing with language barrier and/or traditional believes and practices that may interfere to healthy eating.MethodsFrom 2011, we have designed and implemented a hands‐on project “Linking Immigrants with Nutrition Knowledge (LINK)” as a part of Food, Culture and Nutrition course where we pair groups of two nutrition students with an immigrant or refugee family. They were involved in several purposeful activities throughout the four‐month project. We used mixed‐methods design to evaluate the impact of LINK on cultural competency of students, both quantitatively and qualitatively. In quantitative analyses, we evaluated cultural competency skills of students before and after LINK within the last four years through a standard cultural competency questionnaire. Descriptive and regression analyses, controlling for potential confounders, were conducted. In qualitative component, we collected information and perspectives of students, former students who are currently practicing as dietitians and preceptors with regards to the impact of LINK project on their practice after graduation.ResultsAfter the LINK project, there was a considerably significant increase in odds of higher levels of cultural competency knowledge, skills and encounters (p <0.05) among students compared to before enrollment in LINK. From year to year, there is an increase in odds of high attitude vs. medium and vs. low attitude. The qualitative data are in complete agreement with the quantitative results.ConclusionStudents in health disciplines are expected to have skills for effective communication and interaction with clients from a divers ethno‐cultural backgrounds. Projects that provide real‐life experience, such as LINK, are essential in increasing nutrition students’ cultural competency knowledge, skills and encounter/situation in today's multi‐cultural societies.Support or Funding InformationUniversity of Saskatchewan, Government of Saskatchewan
Pride, Protectionism, and Prejudice: Overcoming Hurdles in Setting‐up Pilots to Evaluate “Fix for Life”, a Low‐hazardous Embalming Method Preserving Life‐like Morphology
Authors: Van Dam Andries J. 
Published: November 2023

About 5 years ago, the “Fix for Life” project was born, which aimed to develop a new low‐hazardous embalming method to preserve life‐like morphology. To achieve these goals, adult female surplus rats from the animal lab's embryo‐breeding program were used for the embalming experiments. After about twenty trials with different embalming and preservation recipes, the promising results generated enough support to transfer the procedure from the animal to the human cadaver model. One year later, the LUMC Department of Anatomy and Embryology decided to use the Fix for Life method as the standard embalming/preservation method for their body donation program and phase out their former embalming procedures based on 4% formaldehyde fixation by perfusion and 2% phenol preservation by immersion.The results of the “Fix for Life” project were presented at the 2014 annual meeting of Dutch Anatomy Society (NAV) in Lunteren and one year later at the annual meeting of the American Association of Anatomists (AAA) in Boston. During these meetings many colleagues showed a great interest in the presented results and were very eager to perform a pilot to evaluate the method in their own institute. This presentation focuses not only on the hurdles to set‐up such pilots, but also the victories once having left them behind.
Depressive like Behavior and Changes in the Gut Microflora are Associated with a High Fat Diet in Male Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Chompre Gladys , Cruz Myrella L , Cruz Suheil , Yamamura Yasuhiro , Appleyard Caroline 
Published: November 2023

Over the past decade, obesity has become an increasing problem worldwide according to the World Health Organization. Due to increased workload, stress, and other obligations, people tend to eat more often outside the home, frequently picking meals with a higher content of fat, and calories (called “the western diet”) resulting in increased body mass index (BMI) and obesity. In fact, several studies suggest that obesity produces gut dysfunction, inflammation, changes in the gut microflora, and mental disorders. However, it is not yet clear whether mental disorders, such as depression, can be induced in a model of obesity.AIMTo study whether a high fat diet will cause changes in the gut microflora, which results in depression.METHODSTwo‐month‐old male Sprague Dawley rats were fed with a High Fat diet (HFD), or Low Fat Diet (LFD), for a month. After diet, both groups were evaluated for depressive and anxiety like behaviors. Feces were evaluated to ascertain the composition of the gut microflora. Samples such serum and gut were evaluated for inflammatory markers.RESULTSSignificant depressive like behavior was found in the HFD group compared with LFD rats, (p<0.05; n=14) however no differences were found in anxiety like behavior. Although no differences in absolute weight were found between the two groups, molecular analysis found higher epididymis fat tissue (p<0.001 n=14) and a higher expression of leptin in the blood of the HFD group compared with the LFD group (p<0.05 n=6). Moreover, metagenomics analysis of the feces revealed differences at 30 days at the family level (p<0.001 n=6); a higher percent of bacteriodes were found in the HFD animals compared to LFD.CONCLUSIONThese data indicate that weight alone is not an indicator of obesity, but the type of food consumption can initiate changes in the gut microflora and blood, which may be associated with behavioral changes such as depressionSupport or Funding InformationRCMIG12 MD007579, GM103475‐12
Obesity‐prone high‐fat fed rats reduce caloric intake and adiposity and gain more fat‐free mass when allowed to separate protein from carbohydrate/fat intake
Authors: Tomé Daniel , Azzout‐Marniche Dalila , Chalvon‐Demersay Tristan , Pimentel Grégory , Chaumontet Catherine , Nadkarni Nachiket , Piedcoq Julien , Fromentin Gilles , Gaudichon Claire , Even Patrick Christian 
Published: November 2023

Dietary fat is among the factors often considered responsible for the high prevalence of adiposity. Both genetic and epigenetic factors influence who in a population will develop adiposity and it is established that humans as well as rodent models are not uniformly sensitive to adiposity gain under high fat diets.In addition it is also recognized that when placed on dietary self‐selection (DSS) conditions, most species are generally able to select an adequate diet for growth and maintenance. In most cases, caloric intake and body weight gain suggest that DSS is closely related to nutritional and physiological requirements. In one previous studies (1), when shifted from a control (low‐fat) mixed diets to DSS rats spontaneously increased protein and strongly decreased caloric intake (−40%) together with preservation of a normal growth which suggested that before DSS rats ate more food in order to increase protein intake.The present study tested the hypothesis that in rats fed a high fat diet (HFD), and particularly in individuals prone to adiposity gain (“fat sensitive”, FS, as opposed to “resistant”, FR), a prioritisation of maintaining protein intake could be involved in the excess energy consumption and hence obesity when fed diet with a protein content considered as too low by the animal. For that purpose, male Wistar rats first received three weeks of HFD (by energy ‐ Protein 15%, Fat 42%, Carbohydrate 42%) under which they were characterised as being FS or FR and then were switched to the same HF diet but in which protein was available separately from the carbohydrate/fat mixture (DSS).The results showed that under this DSS regimen, FR as well as FS rats maintained a similar intake of protein whereas intakes of fat and carbohydrate were reduced by 50%. Overall intake was: protein 27%, carbohydrate 37%, and fat 37%, ie caloric intake remained high in fat. All rats separated in time the ingestion of protein and that of the carbohydrate/fat mix, i.e. avoided to mix again the 3 macronutrients. In both FR and FS rats, adiposity gain was prevented and, in FS rats only, fat free mass gain was increased. Analysis of mRNA showed that enzymes expression of genes coding for lipogenesis was larger in liver and adipose tissue of FS rats.These results show that high‐fat fed rats were able to strongly reduce food intake and adiposity gain through macronutrient selection and that this response occurred in FS rats despite maintenance of mechanisms favoring fat storage.
Effects of an Almond‐Enriched Energy Restricted Diet on Body Composition, Visceral Adipose Tissue and Blood Pressure in Obese Adults
Authors: Dhillon Jaapna , Mattes Richard 
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUNDAlmonds are a good source of protein and monounsaturated fats and their effects on differential rates of visceral and subcutaneous body fat loss, in conjunction with energy restriction, have not been widely examined. Increasing the proportion of protein in an energy‐restricted diet enhances satiety, energy expenditure and greater relative fat mass loss. In addition, monounsaturated fats are oxidized preferentially and a diet higher in the unsaturated: saturated fat ratio may reduce subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) but more importantly, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) during weight loss. The promotion of VAT loss is important clinically as this may translate into a reduction in the risk for metabolic diseases. In addition, emerging evidence indicates food‐derived peptides such as arginine reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Almonds contain a high level of arginine, a peptide that helps to reduce blood pressure (BP).METHODSObese adults (n=28, age: 35.7±11.4 yr, body mass index: 33.1±2.7 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to a 12 week energy restricted (500 kcal deficit) almond‐enriched diet (AED) (n=14) or an energy restricted nut‐free diet (NFD) (n=14). Participants in the AED group were asked to consume dry‐roasted, lightly salted almonds comprising of 15% energy in the individualized energy‐restricted diet. Participants in the NFD group were asked to avoid all nuts during the intervention period. The primary outcomes for this analysis were changes in weight, body composition, VAT and BP pre‐ and post‐study. Body composition was assessed using DEXA. VAT was predicted using multivariate anthropometric models. Resting BP was assessed using automated instruments.RESULTSBody weight, trunk fat percent, total fat percent, VAT and systolic BP decreased after 12 weeks on energy restriction (p<0.05). Diastolic BP remained unchanged with weight loss. Both groups lost similar amounts of body weight over time. The AED group lost more trunk fat percent and total fat percent over time compared to the NFD group (p<0.05). The AED group also had a greater trend for VAT loss over time compared to the NFD group. Both groups had similar reductions in systolic BP with weight loss.CONCLUSIONConsumption of almonds during a weight loss regimen resulted in greater improvements in trunk and total body composition compared to the nut‐free weight loss regimen. The overall improvements in body composition with almond consumption coupled with greater trend for VAT loss may help to reduce metabolic disease risk. In addition, consumption of lightly salted almonds had similar blood pressure reducing effects as the nut‐free intervention.Support or Funding InformationAlmond Board of California
The Effect of Oil Palm Phenolics (OPP) on Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in Transgenic Mouse Model
Authors: Razalli Nurul Huda , Gowthaman Poornima , Saadat Nadia , Vemuri Shilpa , Goja Arvind , Sambanthamurthi Ravigadevi , Gupta Smiti Vaid 
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive form of pancreatic cancer with low survival rates partly due to late diagnosis and poor treatment outcomes. The potential curative treatment through surgical resection is only limited to early stages of PDAC while the use of chemotherapy drug, gemcitabine alone offers minimal benefits. This study aimed to explore the in vivo effects of oil palm phenolics (OPP), a water‐soluble extract from African oil palm, Elaeis guineensis, in transgenic mouse model of PDAC.MethodsSix‐week dietary treatment was carried out on KPC (k‐ras and p53 conditional mutant) mice divided into four groups: KC (control diet), KP (5% OPP diet), KG (gemcitabine), KPG (5% OPP diet + gemcitabine). Littermates without mutations served as controls: CC (control diet) and CP (5% OPP diet). Progression of PDAC was monitored with MRI at weeks 1 and 5 of the study. Histological analysis was performed on fore stomach and pancreatic tissue slides stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for toxicity study and PDAC staging respectively. Imunnohistochemistry with S100 Calcium Binding Protein P (S100P) and SMAD4/DPC4 proteins were used to validate the histological changes seen with H&E staining. Change in gene expression on pancreatic tissue was evaluated by real time real‐time polymerase chain reaction.ResultsFore stomach histological analyses showed that dietary OPP did not exhibit sign of toxicity in control group (CP). OPP treated groups (KP and KPG) had a slower progression of tumor and compared to KC and KG as seen by changes in tumor volumes observed with MRI. All treatment groups (KG, KP and KPG) had a significant decrease in total number of Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PanIN) where the combination of OPP and gemcitabine (KPG) displayed the lowest count. Compared to the KC group, expression of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), cyclin D1 (CCND1), and notch homolog 1 (Notch1) genes was down regulated most significantly in KPG group. Collectively, the results demonstrate potential benefit of dietary OPP as part of combinatorial therapy against progression of PDAC.Support or Funding InformationThis study was funded by Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB).
Fortified Frogs and Skeletogenesis in the Skin: Osteoderm Development and Structure Across Tetrapods
Authors: Vickaryous Matthew K. , Gilbert Emily A.B. , Delorme Stephanie L. 
Published: November 2023

Skeletal organs reinforce the skin of many vertebrates. For most tetrapods these organs are osteoderms, bone‐rich inclusions of the dermis. Although common to armadillos and various reptilian groups, osteoderms have also been reported in frogs. Here we investigate and compare the structure and development of osteoderms across tetrapods, including new data from the study of two distantly related groups of frog, neotropical tree frogs (phyllomedusines) and Asian leaf litter frogs (megophyrids). Within each group, osteoderms demonstrate an inconsistent taxonomic distribution. Similar to other osteoderm‐bearing species, frog osteoderms are one of the last skeletal elements to form and exhibit asynchronous development across the body. Osteoderms first mineralize over the head and pectoral region, before appearing in more caudal and lateral positions across the body. Skeletogenesis is initiated within the dermis at the interface between the superficial and deep layers. Whereas all skeletally mature osteoderms demonstrate a heterogeneous tissue composition, including lamellar‐fibred and woven‐fibred bone, the organization of these tissues often differs between species. Unique to some frogs, the dermis is occupied by a second skeletal organ. This calcified, glycosaminoglycan‐rich tissue, known as the Eberth‐Kastschenko layer (= EK layer; lamina calcarea), is histologically distinct from bone and may instead represent a dental tissue. Our data reveals strong developmental and structural similarities among all tetrapod osteoderms, and highlights the latent skeletogenic capacity of the dermis.Support or Funding InformationNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) 400358
Current methods of thickening feeds for preterm infants with gastroesophageal reflux disease is highly variable
Authors: Koo Jenny K , Bode Lars , Kim Jae H 
Published: November 2023

BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common problem in neonates, especially in preterm infants. The mainstay therapy for GERD begins with repositioning, adjustment of feeding rate, followed by thickening of feeds, then with pharmacologic intervention, and finally surgery. A large meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials demonstrated effective reduction of GERD symptoms in infants fed thickened feeds. Infants who received thickened feeds also demonstrated better weight gain.ObjectiveTo measure the viscosity effect of different thickening strategies for preterm infants with GERDMethodsWe thickened donor human milk (DHM) and formula using various thickeners: starch based thickeners (SBT) (Thick It™), xanthan gum based thickeners (GBT) (Simply Thick™, Thicken Up Clear™), carob GBT (GelMix™) or rice cereal. We also assessed formula with added starches that are marketed for reflux, including Simlac Spit Up™ and Enfamil AR™. The viscosity of each sample was measured at 0, 15, 30 and 60 minutes after the addition of thickeners. Each sample of milk or formula was thickened per manufacturer recommendations for each of the products, with a goal of achieving nectar‐thick consistency. The acidity (pH) of each sample was measured and in separate trials, 3M HCl and 0.1M HCl was added to the milk and thickener mixtures to mimic the range of acidity in the stomach. Two temperatures, room temperature and 37°C, were evaluated, DHM was tested with and without human milk fortifiers (HMF). Acidity was also controlled to mimic the range of gastric pH. Viscosity of the milk was measured using a rotary viscometer (NDJ‐1, NDJ, China) that had the ability to measure viscosity between 10 to 100,000 mPa*s +/− 5% error.ResultsFormula can be effectively thickened with all types of thickeners, and the viscosities of thickened formula quickly achieve a nectar‐thick consistency and subsequently continue to thicken over time. On the other hand, DHM does not effectively thicken with SBT. DHM went back to baseline viscosity (thin liquid) within 15 minutes of adding SBT. Both DHM and formula, when thickened with rice cereal, formed a non‐homogenous mixture that rendered viscosity readings imprecise given the vast range of viscosities within the same fluid sample. Acid ablated the effects of xanthan GBT while carob GBT retained some thickening potential. An acid pH effectively thickened anti‐regurgitation formulas.ConclusionsCurrent thickening strategies of preterm infant feeding produces highly variable results in final feed viscosity. Objective measures of liquid viscosity are recommended for adequate comparisons of thickening efficacy and changes to thickening regimen. Careful consideration of acidity and time need to be observed. Human milk continues to be the most challenging feed type to thicken in a controlled manner.Support or Funding InformationThis research was supported by divisional funds.
No time for family meals – what's a family to do?
Authors: Watts Allison W , Berge Jerica , Loth Katie , Larson Nicole , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne 
Published: November 2023

PurposeMuch research has touted the health benefits of family meals for adolescents, particularly for healthier diets. However, some families experience barriers (e.g., busy schedules, lack of cooking skills) that make it difficult to have regular family meals. Parents may need guidance about other ways that they might promote healthy eating in their adolescent children. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the home and family environment at different levels of family meal participation to see what factors are associated with adolescent fruit and vegetable (FV) intake. Results will inform recommendations regarding how other factors in the home environment may promote similar health benefits as having family mealsMethodsData were drawn from EAT 2010 (Eating and Activity in Teens), a diverse population‐based study of 2,793 adolescents attending 20 public middle/high schools in Minneapolis/St‐Paul during 2009–2010. Adolescents completed an FFQ and survey items about home environmental factors hypothesized to be related to FV intake (FV availability, FV accessibility, parent encouragement, family communication, and family functioning). Linear regression models were used to examine: 1) individual associations between family meals, home factors and FV intake; 2) the relative influence of family meals and each home factor on FV intake; and 3) interactions between family meal frequency and the presence of other healthful home factors. Models were adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity and energy intake.ResultsIn unadjusted models, all home factors were positively associated with FV intake. In mutually adjusted models, family meals, FV availability, FV accessibility, and parent encouragement for healthy foods were independently associated with higher FV intake. Among the 949 (35%) adolescents who reported infrequent family meals (≤2 days/week), greater home FV availability, FV accessibility, and parent encouragement were each associated with an approximately half serving increase in FV per day. Adolescents having regular family meals in addition to more favorable home characteristics had up to an additional one serving increase in FV per day.ConclusionRegular family meals in combination with other home environmental factors were associated with the best outcomes; however, instructing families to provide healthy foods and encouragement may lead to meaningful nutritional benefits in the absence of family meals.Support or Funding InformationThis study was supported by Grant Number R01HL084064 from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (PI: Dianne Neumark‐Sztainer). AWW was supported by a fellowship from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.