Significant Differences In Lipids Research Articles

Increased carotid intima–media thickening and antioxidized low-density lipoprotein in an anti-Ro60 SLE autoantibody subset

ObjectivePremature atherosclerosis is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We have previously shown an association of anti-Ro60/La/Ro52 with antioxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in SLE. Here, we hypothesized that carotid intima–media thickening (CIMT) would be associated with antioxidized LDL (anti-oxLDL)/antilipoprotein lipase (ALPL) in a specific SLE autoantibody subset (anti-Ro60 positive, anti-RNP positive, anti-SmRNP positive, or extractable nuclear antigen antibody negative).MethodsWe carried out a case-control study (one time-point testing) of CIMT, ALPL, anti-oxLDL, anti-low density lipoprotein (ALDL), and anti-LDL in 114 SLE patients and 117 age/sex-matched controls. The levels of total cholesterol, LDL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, and HDL-Trig were also measured. A student's t-test was used for statistical analysis.ResultsInterestingly, the level of CIMT was highest in the SLE subset with anti-Ro60 (23/114). CIMT and anti-oxLDL were statistically significantly elevated in the anti-Ro60 SLE subset (1.3 ± 1.66, p < 0.01; 0.26 ± 0.16, p < 0.002, respectively) compared with controls (0.54 ± 1.26; 0.165 ± 0.13, respectively), but not anti-LPL/anti-LDL. CIMT was significantly elevated (0.9 ± 1.71; p < 0.05) in the SLE subset without antiextractable nuclear antigen (ENA) (63/114) compared with controls. The other antibodies in this subset were not statistically different from other SLE subsets or controls. Only antioxLDL was significantly elevated (0.29 ± 0.27; p < 0.005) in the SLE subset with anti-RNP (14/114) compared with controls, while none were elevated in the anti-SmRNP subset (6/114). We did not find any significant differences in lipids between the various SLE subsets.ConclusionCIMT segregates in anti-Ro and ENA negative groups either with or without anti-oxLDL. It will be clinically important if cardiovascular events are augmented in the SLE anti-Ro subset having elevated antioxidized LDL antibodies.

Spatial Lipidomics of EPSPS and PAT Transgenic and Non-Transgenic Soybean Seeds Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging

Herbicide-resistant soybeans are among the most widely planted transgenic crops. The in situ evaluation of spatial lipidomics in transgenic and non-transgenic soybeans is important for directly assessing the unintended effects of exogenous gene introduction. In this study, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI)-based non-targeted analytical strategies were used for the first time for in situ detection and imaging of endogenous lipid distributions in transgenic (EPSPS and PAT genes) herbicide-resistant soybean (Glycine max Merrill) (S4003.14) and non-transgenic soybean (JACK) seeds. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in lipids between S4003.14 and JACK seeds. The variable importance of projection analysis further revealed that 18 identified lipids, including six phosphatidylcholines (PCs), four phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), five triacylglycerols (TAGs), and three cytidine diphosphate-diacylglycerols (CDP-DAGs), had the strongest differential expression between S4003.14 and JACK seeds. Among those, the upregulated expressions of PC(P-36:1), PC(36:2), PC(P-36:0), PC(37:5), PE(40:2), TAG(52:1), TAG(55:5), and CDP-DAG(37:2) and the downregulated expressions of PC (36:1), TAG(43:0), and three PEs (i.e., PE(P-38:1), PE(P-38:0), and PE(P-40:3)) were successfully found in the S4003.14 seeds, compared to these lipids detected in the JACK seeds. Meanwhile, the lipids of PC (44:8), CDP-DAG(38:0), and CDP-DAG(42:0) were uniquely detected in the S4003.14 soybean seeds, and TAG(45:2) and TAG(57:10) were detected as the unique lipids in the JACK seeds. The heterogeneous distribution of these lipids in the soybean seeds was also clearly visualized using MALDI-MSI. MSI results showed that lipid expression was significantly up/downregulated in S4003.14 seeds, compared to that in JACK seeds. This study improves our understanding of the unintended effects of herbicide-resistant EPSPS and PAT gene transfers on spatial lipidomes in soybean seeds and enables the continued progression of MALDI-MSI as an emerging, reliable, and rapid molecular imaging tool for evaluating unintended effects in transgenic plants.

Quality and Yield of Edible Vegetables from Landscape Design

This study evaluated the effects of raised beds on crop production and quality in home gardens. The crops were grown using optimal management techniques and crop rotation principles based on organic farming. Three experimental versions were compared: V1 with 40-centimetre-high raised beds, V2 with 20-centimetre-high raised beds, and V3 with ground-level beds as the control. The results showed consistent dry weight and moisture content across all three versions for most vegetable varieties. The sweet pepper ‘Barbara’ stood out significantly, as V3 had the highest dry weight percentage (10.28%) and V2 had the highest moisture content percentage (93.40%). Nutrient analysis revealed no significant differences in lipid, ash, protein, nitrogen, or caloric value among the different versions of most vegetables. However, version V3 of the tomato ‘Tigerella’ showed the highest crude fibre content. Variations were observed in lycopene, ß-carotene, and calcium content among different versions of specific vegetables. Anti-nutritive compounds and average yield varied among the experimental versions for certain plant species. These findings have implications for dietary choices and can guide sustainable food production. It is recommended to consider raised beds, particularly V3, for cultivating sweet pepper ‘Barbara’, and further research is encouraged to explore the potential health benefits of version V3 of tomato ‘Tigerella’. These insights provide valuable vegetable science and nutrition information and can guide agricultural practices.

Impact of an individualized counseling program on weight loss and quality of life in breast cancer survivors.

1105 Background: Survivors of breast cancer who are obese have a greater than two-fold increase in mortality compared to their counterparts. We assessed the feasibility of an individualized nutrition counseling and exercise program with the goal of helping participants achieve a loss of 10% body weight. Secondary endpoints included impact on multiple metabolic parameters, cardiovascular health, and quality of life. Methods: We present preliminary data from a single-arm pilot trial (NCT04365569) whereby survivors of breast cancer with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 participated in a 6-month, individualized counseling program. A registered dietitian (RD) counseled patients based upon recommendations by the American Cancer Society. The intervention included in-person (baseline, months 3 and 6) and telephone visits (months 1, 2, 4, and 5). The nutrition component included weight and body composition measures and blood work, including lipid panel and hemoglobin A1c. Cardiovascular fitness and extrapolated VO2 max were measured using SHAPE study. Quality of life was evaluated using: the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Breast Cancer (FACT-B), the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the NCCN Distress Thermometer. Paired statistics were used to compare changes in these aforementioned outcomes pre-and post-intervention. Results: A total of n=55 female breast cancer survivors (mean age 58.1± 9.13) were enrolled. N=28 completed the trial to date. While 14.3% of participants lost >10% of their baseline weight, 21.4% lost 5-10 % of their weight. Patients had a mean 45.30% drop in body fat composition overall (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in lipids and hemoglobin A1c. In terms of cardiovascular function, a decline in mean VO2 max of -4.71 (SD 4.71, p <0.001) was observed, accompanied by a decline in mean METS of -1.09 (SD 0.84, p <0.001). Higher compliance with the intervention was associated with losing weight (p 0.001). FACT-B scoring revealed improvements in Physical (mean +1.92, SD 3.82), Emotional (mean +1.03, SD 2.71), and Functional well-being (mean +2.70, SD 4.34) (p <0.05). This trial was also associated with lower indicators of depression, as evaluated by PHQ-9 scoring (mean -1.32, SD 3.19, p 0.038). Even in patients with weight gain, improvements in QoL surveys were observed, although not statistically significant, likely due to the small sample size in this subpopulation (n = 7). Conclusions: An individualized counseling program benefits survivors of breast cancer who are overweight by helping them reduce weight and improve their overall quality of life. While no improvements in VO2 max levels were observed, this may be partially explained by a decrease in effort on the part of participants. Further investigation into the utility of extrapolated VO2 max using the SHAPE study is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT04365569.

Impact of Different Diets on Adult Tri-Spine Horseshoe Crab, Tachypleus tridentatus.

Effective culture and management of adult tri-spine horseshoe crab, Tachypleus tridentatus can ensure that stock enhancement programs and aquaculture systems are maintained. To explore suitable feed for animals during the breeding season, Pacific oyster (Ostrea gigas) (oyster group; OG) and frozen sharpbelly fish (Hemiculter leucisculus) (frozen fish group; FG) were selected to feed 20 T. tridentatus male and female pairs, respectively. At the end of the experiment, intestinal samples were obtained to measure digestive enzymes activities. The intestinal flora were determined by 16S rDNA sequencing. No eggs were observed in the FG and one T. tridentatus adult died. No animals died in the OG, and 9.7 × 104 eggs were obtained. These results show that oysters are more suitable for the development and reproduction of adult T. tridentatus than frozen fish. Additionally, the digestive enzyme activity analysis revealed that animals in the OG exhibited higher protein digestibility than those in the FG, but no significant differences in lipid and carbohydrate uptake were observed between the groups. Furthermore, the intestinal flora analysis showed that operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and the Chao1 index were significantly higher in the OG than in the FG, but no significant difference was observed in the Shannon or Simpson indices between the groups. Our data indicate that the oyster diet improved the intestinal microbial diversity of T. tridentatus. We hypothesize that nutrients, such as oyster-based taurine, proteins, and highly unsaturated fatty acids, improve protease activity in the T. tridentatus digestive tract, alter the intestinal floral structure, and improve the reproductive performance of T. tridentatus.

Changes in the lipid profile of neutered cats’ blood in cases of obesity and diabetes

The aim of the present study was to examine the lipid profile, lipid fractions and the lipid peroxidation state in the blood of neutered cats with obesity and diabetes. Three groups of neutered cats (males and females) were formed for the study. We compared cats with obesity (7-9 points on a 9-point BCS scale), with obesity complicated by diabetes, and clinically healthy animals with normal body condition scores (4-5 BCS points). Lipidogram parameters, fractions of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), chylomicrons (CM), lipid peroxidation products (POL) - lipid hydroperoxides (GPL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were analysed. In obese cats, a decrease in HDL and phospholipids was observed, and an increase in LDL, VLDL, CM, triglycerides, and cholesterol. No significant differences in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism between neutered females and males were found. A tendency towards increasing concentrations of lipoproteins, triglycerides and cholesterol in males, as well as an increase in phospholipids in females was found. In cats with obesity and associated diabetes, the ratio of phospholipids: cholesterol was less than one, while in healthy cats - more than one. Obesity and diabetes initiate POL and increased concentrations of GPL and MDA, which were the highest in the blood of females with associated pathology.

Modulation of human intestinal microbiota in a clinical trial by consumption of a β-D-glucan-enriched extract obtained from Lentinula edodes.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypocholesterolemic, immune- and microbiota-modulatory effect of a mushroom extract in hypercholesterolemic subjects. A randomized, controlled, double-blind, and parallel clinical trial was carried out with subjects from 18 to 65years old (n = 52) with untreated mild hypercholesterolemia. Volunteers consumed a β-D-glucan-enriched (BGE) mixture (10.4g/day) obtained from shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) ensuring a 3.5g/day of fungal β-D-glucans or a placebo incorporated in three different commercial creams. This mixture showed hypocholesterolemic activities in vitro and in animal studies. After eight weeks intervention, no significant differences in lipid- or cholesterol-related parameters were found compared to placebo subjects as well as before and after the BGE mixture administration. No inflammatory or immunomodulatory responses were noticed and no changes in IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α or oxLDL were recorded. However, consumption of the BGE mixture was safe and managed to achieve the dietary fibre intake recommended as cardiovascular protective diet. Moreover, the BGE mixture modulated the colonic microbiota differently compared to placebo. Microbial community composition varied from before to after the intervention with several genera being positively or negatively correlated with some biomarkers related to cholesterol metabolism. These results suggested a relation between cholesterol metabolism, microbiota and BGE administration. Nevertheless, the precise significance of this differential modulation was not fully elucidated and requires further studies.

Early-Life Nutrition Supplementation Was Associated with Attenuated Postprandial Glycemia in Adulthood

Abstract Objectives Populations who were malnourished in early life are susceptible to cardiometabolic disturbances. Metabolic flexibility, the adaptive response to environmental signals such as food ingestion, is integral to cardiometabolic health. We hypothesized that participants exposed to improved nutrition in early life, compared with those unexposed, have better metabolic flexibility. Methods In 1969–77, Guatemalan participants were randomized at the village level to receive either a protein and energy supplement or a low-calorie control. In 2015–17, we collected plasma samples before and 2 h after a mixed-component meal challenge. We characterized metabolic flexibility through meal-induced lipid, glycemic, and pro- and anti-inflammatory responses. Using linear regression for single-marker responses and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) for domain-specific responses, we compared metabolic flexibility between participants exposed to the nutrition supplement from conception to 2y (the “first 1000 days”) versus others. Using structural equation modelling (SEM), we investigated the relationships among postprandial biomarker responses. Results Among 1027 participants (aged 44.0 ± 4.2 y, 59.4% women) who completed the meal challenge, 22.9% were exposed to the supplement in the full first 1000 days. At the single-marker level, insulin increased the most (>2x), whereas non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) decreased the most (by half) post meal, regardless of early-life nutritional exposure status (P > 0.05 for insulin and NEFA, respectively). Glucose increased by 11.4% in the exposed group, compared with 15.7% in the unexposed group (P < 0.05). SEM identified three latent variables (LV) for postprandial biomarker changes. LV1 and 3 were lipid response-dominant; LV2 was glycemic response-dominant (comparative fit index 0.89, root mean square error of approximation 0.10). MANOVA results showed that the glycemic domain differed by early-life nutritional exposure (P = 0.03). No difference was observed in other domains. Conclusions Early-life exposure to improved nutrition was associated with more favorable glycemic response in this population but not with significant differences in lipid or inflammatory responses. Funding Sources National Institutes of Health Grant No. HD075784.

SERUM LIPID AND TRACE MINERAL PROFILES AMONG TYPE 2 DIABETICS AND HYPERTENSIVE DIABETICS AT THE BAMENDA REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Objective: Diabetes mellitus has become a clinical condition of public health importance, especially in developing countries due to its high mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to measure and compare the lipid and serum trace mineral profile among type 2 diabetics and hypertensive diabetics with controls.
 Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at the Regional Hospital, Bamenda, involving 50 diabetic normotensives, 50 hypertensive diabetics, and 50 normal recruited subjects. Serum levels of lipids and minerals were determined using standard methods.
 Results: Of the four trace elements assessed, except for copper (Cu) whose mean values in diabetics were abnormally increased (p=0.01), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and chromium (Cr) showed significantly decreased mean values in diabetics compared to the controls (p<0.05). The mean levels of these trace elements were also significantly reduced in hypertensive diabetic patients (p<0.05). In diabetics, there was no significant difference in the lipid levels. However, only total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein mean values were significantly higher in hypertensive diabetic patients compared to the normal controls. There was also a positive significant correlation between the body mass index and Cr (r=+0.3, p=0.045) in diabetics.
 Conclusion: This study saw statistically significant differences in the serum lipid and trace element levels between diabetics, hypertensive diabetics, and controls: With diabetic and diabetic hypertensive patients having higher serum Cu levels and decreased serum Mg, Zn, and Cr levels compared to the normal controls. The lipid profile levels in diabetics and hypertensive diabetics were not significant differences within the study groups for all lipid profile estimations except for TC and LDL which were significantly higher only in hypertensive diabetic patients.

Contribution of allosteric disulfide in the structural regulation of membrane-bound tissue factor–factor VIIa binary complex

Two distinct populations, active and cryptic forms of tissue factor (TF), reside on the cell surface. Apart from phospholipid contribution, various models have been introduced to explain decryption/encryption of TF. The proposed model, the switching of Cys186–Cys209 bond of TF, has become the matter of controversy. However, it is well accepted that this disulfide has an immense influence upon ligand factor VIIa (FVIIa) for its binding. However, molecular level understanding for this remains unveiled due to lack of detailed structural information. In this regard, we have performed the molecular dynamic study of membrane-bound TF/TF–FVIIa in both the forms (±Cys186–Cys209 allosteric disulfide bond), individually. Dynamic study depicts that disulfide bond provides structural rigidity of TF in both free and ligand-bound forms. This disulfide bond also governs the conformation of FVIIa structure as well as the binding affinity of FVIIa toward TF. Significant differences in lipid–protein interaction profiles of both the forms of TF in the complex were observed. Two forms of TF, oxidized and reduced, have different structural conformation and behave differentially toward its ligand FVIIa. This disulfide bond not only alters the conformation of GLA domain of FVIIa in the vicinity but allosterically regulates the conformation of the distantly located FVIIa protease domain. We suggest that the redox status of the disulfide bond also governs the lipid-mediated interactions with both TF and FVIIa.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Evaluation of extraction method on the structure and physicochemical properties of starch from seeds of two jackfruit varieties

Two main varieties of jackfruit (soft and hard) are commonly known in Brazil and contain a large amount of starch. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of extraction methods (aqueous and alkaline treatments) on the structural and physicochemical properties of starches from soft and hard jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) seeds. The jackfruit seed starch (JSS) granules were small (6.4–11.1 μm diameter), round, and bell‐shaped with a smooth surface. Apparent amylose content ranged from 24 to 32% and was higher for the soft variety, which influenced several properties. The starches exhibited A‐type XRD patterns, which contributed to the high peak gelatinization temperatures (72–81°C), and a crystallinity index ranging between 9.3 and 36.9%. Peak viscosities (2362–3373 cP) were similar to cassava starch. However, irrespective of the extraction method, the hard JSS had relatively higher pasting properties (peak viscosity and breakdown), swelling power, and solubility index (90°C) when compared to the soft JSS, which could be associated with the lower amylose content. Significant differences in lipid, protein, and amylose contents were observed in all starches extracted with the NaOH solution. The alkaline solvent decreased the average particle size of JSS by about 36%, probably causing a chemical gelatinization. Additionally, NaOH significantly reduced the crystallinity index and caused minor changes in granule morphology and swelling power.

Antioxidant defense system and oxidative status in Antarctic fishes: The sluggish rockcod Notothenia coriiceps versus the active marbled notothen Notothenia rossii

Adaptive responses of antioxidant defense systems (ADS) to changes in increased levels of activity are critical, especially in Antarctic fishes. The benthopelagic marbled notothen (Notothenia rossii) shows higher spontaneous activity than the benthonic and sluggish rockcod (N. coriiceps). Therefore, we hypothesize that species-related responses of ADS would occur to counteract different rates of reactive oxygen species formation in these two Antarctic fish. Here we evaluated ADS and oxidative damage in tissues (brain, gills, liver and white muscle) of the two Antarctic fish. Despite no significant differences in lipid and protein oxidative damage were observed, we actually found species- and tissue-specific differences in ADS. Gill metallothionein-like proteins (MTLP) and liver reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations were higher in N. coriiceps than in N. rossii. Brain and gill antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP); gill enzyme [glutamate-cysteine ligase (GSL), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] activity; liver GCL and SOD activity; and white muscle CAT activity were higher in N. rossii than in N. coriiceps. Therefore, the more active fish (N. rossii) maintains higher activities of enzymes involved in superoxide ions (O2.-) detoxification and GSH production in peripheral tissues (gills, liver and white muscle). This allows the more active fish (N. rossii) to keep levels of lipid and protein oxidative damage similar to those observed in the sluggish fish (N. coriiceps). It is worth noting that the more active fish also shows a higher brain antioxidant capacity, which could involve other non-enzymatic antioxidants like vitamins C and E. In contrast, N. coriiceps shows lower consumption of non-enzymatic antioxidants in peripheral tissues than N. coriiceps. As hypothesized, our results indicate that differences in ADS profiles between fish species are likely related to their habits and metabolic rates. This would imply in different fish abilities to deal with oxidative stress associated with increasing seawater temperature.

Musings at MID-Career: What is so Special about omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Receiving the Thomas E. Thompson award is a tremendous honor that provides an opportunity to reflect on a scientific journey that is inextricably linked to the Membrane Structure and Assembly subgroup of the Biophysical Society. Members of the subgroup have served as my closest collaborators, as sources of knowledge and wisdom, and as role models of a worthy scientific career. In this talk I will describe our efforts to use computational approaches to study highly polyunsaturated lipids, in particular those containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). By employing molecular dynamics simulations with enhanced sampling algorithms we have identified significant differences in lipid mediated protein-protein interactions. These results are analyzed in terms of the unique conformations available to omega-3 fatty acids and their subsequent effect on lipid packing at the lipid-protein interface.

Cardiovascular risk factors one year after a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy.

To identify differences in women's cardiovascular risk, independent of obesity, one year after delivery of a pregnancy complicated by a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP). We compared traditional and novel cardiovascular risk factors of women recruited at delivery following the diagnosis of an HDP with those of women with uncomplicated pregnancies, at 3 months and 12-18 months postpartum. Measures included blood pressure, fasting lipids, inflammatory biomarkers, and measures of insulin resistance. Multiple linear regressions were used to adjust for body mass index (BMI) and other characteristics. We studied 71 subjects: 31 women with HDP and 40 with an uncomplicated pregnancy. There were no significant differences between groups for total cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c, triglycerides, HgbA1c, or homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance. Values for tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly higher in the HDP group (p<0.01), while those for interleukin-6 and c-reactive protein were not. A diagnosis of HDP was associated with a 9 mm Hg difference in systolic blood pressure at both 3 months and 1 year, after adjustment for age, BMI, race, family history of cardiovascular disease, tobacco use, and insurance. Women with HDP had significantly higher blood pressure 3 months and 1 year after delivery, independent of obesity. There were no significant differences in lipids or measures of insulin resistance after adjusting for BMI. Elevated blood pressure may account for the observed associations between HDP and future cardiovascular disease.

Resting and Energy Reserves of Aedes albopictus Collected in Common Landscaping Vegetation in St. Augustine, Florida

The resting behavior of Aedes albopictus was evaluated by aspirating diurnal resting mosquitoes from common landscape vegetation in residential communities in St. Augustine, FL. Energy reserves of the resting mosquitoes were analyzed to determine if there was a correlation between mosquito resting habitat and energy accumulation. Six species of plants were selected and 9 collections of resting mosquitoes were aspirated from each plant using a modified John W. Hock backpack aspirator during June and July 2012. Eight mosquito species were collected, with Ae. albopictus representing 74% of the overall collection. The number of Ae. albopictus collected varied significantly with the species of vegetation. When comparing the vegetation and abundance of resting mosquitoes, the highest percentages of Ae. albopictus were collected resting on Ruellia brittoniana (Mexican petunia), Asplenium platyneuron (fern), Gibasis geniculate (Tahitian bridal veil), followed by Plumba goauriculata (plumbago), Setcreasea pallida (purple heart), and Hibiscus tiliaceus (hibiscus). There were significant differences in lipid and glycogen accumulation based on type of vegetation Ae. albopictus was found resting in. Resting mosquitoes' sugar reserves were not influenced by species of vegetation. However, there was an overall correlation between vegetation that serves as a resting habitat and energy reserve accumulation. The results of our study demonstrate the potential to target specific vegetation for control of diurnal resting mosquitoes.

Lipoprotein Subfractions by Ion Mobility in Lean and Obese Children

To establish normative data for lipoprotein subfractions using a novel ion mobility assay in healthy lean children and to compare their data with those of obese children preselected with normal glucose, blood pressure, and relatively normal lipids. Fasting blood samples in 162 children aged 7.0-18.9 years (75 lean [body mass index: 18.6 ± 6.6 kg/m(2)] and 87 obese [body mass index: 31.7 ± 5.4 kg/m(2)]) were analyzed. Correlation of lipoprotein subfractions with anthropometric and laboratory markers was performed. Principal component analysis was used to avoid using correlated variables. Normative data for lipid subfractions were obtained in healthy children. Lean children had higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-large (76%), HDL-small (13%), and HDL-total (27%) compared with obese (P < .01), and lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-medium (-30%, P < .01) and medium + small (-21%, P = .02) as well as LDL-total (-13%, P = .035). In both groups, the LDL component was higher in males and pubertal children (P < .01). Prepubertal children had a higher HDL component than pubertal ones (P < .004). Adjusting for sex and pubertal status LDL component was positively, and HDL component negatively, correlated with obesity (P < .004). Despite relatively normal triglycerides and cholesterol measured with standard assays at screening, ion mobility analysis showed significant differences in lipid and apolipoprotein subfractions between lean and obese children, even those prepubertal. Long-term, prospective follow-up may better characterize the predictability of lipid subfractions for future cardiovascular disease risk in children.

Endothelial dysfunction in uremic patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)

Endothelial dysfunction is associated with diabetic micro- and macroangiopathy as well as with the decline in creatinine clearance. It has been suggested that endothelial dysfunction presents in patients (pts) on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The objective of this study was to examine the plasma biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and their association with IMT of carotid arteries in diabetic and non-diabetic patients on CAPD. This study included 37 CAPD pts (25 with type II diabetes and 12 non-diabetic pts) mean age 59.2 years ± 2.48. Plasma von Willebrand factor (vWF) activity, serum albumin, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoprotein (a) levels, as well as serum level of homocysteine, parathyroid hormone (PTH) in plasma and microalbuminuria was determined. Ultrasound examination of carotid arteries was performed in all patients by measured bilateral intima-media thickness of carotid artery (CIMT). Mean IMT value was significantly higher in type 2 DM patients (0.86 ± 0.04 mm) compared to non-diabetic patients (0.52 ± 0.06 mm) on peritoneal dialysis (p<0.0001). There was also a significant difference in lipids /triglycerides and Lp (a)/, procoagulation (fibrinogen, von Wilebrand factor, factor VIII) and inflammatory markers (CRP) level between type 2 DM and non-diabetic CAPD patients. A stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that log triglycerides and factor VIII were independent factors for the IMT. The results of this research impose that diabetic type 2 CAPD patients have developed systemic alteration of endothelial function and higher risk of cardiovascular complications compared to non-diabetic CAPD patients.

Apple pomace from eleven cultivars: an approach to identify sources of bioactive compounds

The dried apple pomace composition of 11 cultivars was assessed in this work. Significant differences in lipids, malic acid, total polyphenol compounds, total reducing sugars, and alimentary fiber content were observed among the samples. Dietary fiber was composed of 35% pectin and 65% insoluble fiber. Total polyphenol compounds (TPC), measured as chatechins, ranged from 2.29 to 7.15 mg/Kg of apple pomace. Antioxidant activity, expressed as total equivalents of antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values, varied from 17.41 to 77.48 mmMol/g and a high correlation coefficient was observed between antoxidant and polyphenol levels (R2 = 0.82). PCA results showed that apple pomaces from different cultivars may have different composition profiles and different antioxidant activity. The drying kinetics of apple pomace fitted a third order model. The results also pointed that dehydrated apple pomace could be used as raw material for inverted sugar production, after purification, and as an interesting ingredient for the production of foodstuffs rich in alimentary fibers, TPC, and antioxidants.

Hydrologic habitat preferences of select southeastern USA fishes resilient to river ecosystem fragmentation

AbstractLarge‐scale habitat preferences of riverine taxa are not always revealed by examining community data. Here, we show how lipid and growth can be used to evaluate hydrologic habitat preferences of fishes resilient to river fragmentation (i.e. species that can tolerate river fragmentation by dams, but not collapse). Lipid content was examined for seven fishes in a major southeastern USA reservoir and its largest lotic tributary over the 5 years. Controlling for effects of sex, size and year of collection, largemouth bass, spotted bass and black crappie had significantly higher lipid in lentic habitat. Conversely, channel catfish and freshwater drum had significantly higher lipid in lotic habitat. There were no significant differences in lipid of bluegill and blacktail shiner between hydrologic habitat types. Fish growth produced concordant results as largemouth bass and spotted bass had significantly faster growth in lentic habitat, whereas channel catfish and freshwater drum had significantly faster growth in lotic habitat. We were also able to document a synchronous spike in lipids of these species in both habitat types during a major drought. We surmise that the spike was driven by enhanced primary production, predator‐prey concentration and possibly also reduced reproduction during intense drought. Two conclusions are drawn from this study as a whole. First, long‐term lipid and growth observations hold promise for evaluating ecological effects of droughts over long time spans. Second, population characteristics are excellent indicators of habitat preferences and could be used more broadly to elucidate how organisms react to river ecosystem fragmentation and restoration initiatives. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.

Metabolic and hormonal processes associated with the induction of secondary dormancy inBrassica napusseedsThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in a Special Issue from the National Research Council of Canada – Plant Biotechnology Institute.

Polyethylene glycol treatment induces secondary seed dormancy in Brassica napus L. cultivar ‘AC Excel’ (ACE), but not in ‘DH12075’ (DH). Gene expression, metabolite profiles, and hormone profiles were obtained from seeds of both cultivars following polyethylene glycol 8000 treatment. ACE seeds were more transcriptionally active: 28 genes were up-regulated in both cultivars and 10 and 158 genes were specifically up-regulated in DH and ACE, respectively. Nontargeted metabolite analyses combined with gene expression analyses showed significant differences in lipid, sugar, and phenylpropanoid metabolism between the cultivars. Abscisic acid (ABA) levels were higher and many ABA-inducible genes were expressed more in ACE. An association of ABA with secondary dormancy was supported by the observation that secondary dormancy was induced by polyethylene glycol 8000 in Arabidopsis wild-type seeds, but was reduced in ABA-deficient and ABA-insensitive mutants. Therefore, secondary dormancy appears to be realized through an active ABA-related mechanism that may involve changes in primary and secondary metabolism.