A Walnut-Enriched Diet for 2 Years Changes the Serum Oxylipin Profile in Healthy Older Persons

BACKGROUND

Oxylipins are products derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that play a role in cardiovascular disease and aging. Fish oil-derived n-3 PUFAs promote the formation of anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory oxylipins; however, there are little data on oxylipins derived from α-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3), the primary plant-derived n-3 PUFA. Walnuts are a source of C18:3n-3.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect on serum oxylipins of a diet enriched with walnuts at 15% energy (30-60 g/d; 2.6-5.2 g C18:3n-3/d) for 2 y compared to a control diet (abstention from walnuts) in healthy older males and females (63-79 y).

METHODS

The red blood cell proportion of α-linolenic acid was determined by gas chromatography as a measure of compliance. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure serum concentrations of 53 oxylipins in participants randomly assigned to receive the walnut diet (n = 64) or the control diet (n = 51). Two-year concentration changes (final minus baseline) were log-transformed (base log-10) and standardized (mean-centered and divided by the standard deviation of each variable). Volcano plots were then generated (fold change ≥1.5; false discovery rate ≤0.1). For each oxylipin delta surviving multiple testing, we further assessed between-intervention group differences by analysis of covariance adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and the baseline concentration of the oxylipin.

RESULTS

The 2-y change in red blood cell C18:3n-3 in the walnut group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.001). Compared to the control diet, the walnut diet resulted in statistically significantly greater increases in 3 C18:3n-3-derived oxylipins (9-HOTrE, 13-HOTrE, and 12,13-EpODE) and in the C20:5n-3 derived 14,15-diHETE, and greater reductions of the C20:4n-6-derived 5-HETE, 19-HETE, and 5,6-diHETrE.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term walnut consumption changes the serum oxylipin profile in healthy older persons. Our results add novel mechanistic evidence on the cardioprotective effects of walnuts.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01634841.

One Avocado per Day as Part of Usual Intake Improves Diet Quality: Exploratory Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Few clinical trials have evaluated diet quality change as a predictor of intervention effectiveness.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine changes in the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 after a food-based intervention, and assess the associations between HEI-2015 change and intervention effects on cardiometabolic risk-related outcomes.

Methods

The Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial was a 26-wk, multicenter, randomized, controlled parallel-arm study. Participants were 1008 individuals aged ≥25 y with abdominal obesity (females ≥ 35 inches; males ≥ 40 inches). The avocado-supplemented diet group was provided 1 avocado per day, and the habitual diet group maintained their usual diet. Change in diet quality was assessed using the HEI-2015 from a single 24-h recall conducted at 4 time points. Mixed models were used for analysis.

Results

The avocado-supplemented diet group had a greater increase in the HEI-2015 (4.74 points; 95% CI: 2.93, 6.55) at 26 wk than the habitual diet group. Compared with the habitual diet group, the avocado-supplemented diet group had greater increases in the following HEI-2015 components from baseline: total vegetables (0.99 points; 95% CI: 0.77, 1.21), fatty acid ratio (2.25 points; 95% CI: 1.74, 2.77), sodium (1.03 points; 95% CI: 0.52, 1.55), refined grains (0.82 points; 95% CI: 0.32, 1.31), and added sugars (0.84 points; 95% CI: 0.49, 1.19). No differences in HEI-2015 improvements were observed by race, ethnicity, study site, body mass index, or age category. In the avocado-supplemented diet compared with the habitual diet group, the HEI-2015 increased in females (6.50 points; 95% CI: 4.39, 8.62) but not in males (0.02 points; 95% CI: -3.44, 3.48). Median HEI-2015 change was not associated with intervention-related changes in cardiometabolic disease risk factors.

Conclusions

Intake of 1 avocado per day for 26 wk in adults with abdominal obesity increased adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Changes in diet quality did not predict changes in risk factors for cardiometabolic disease.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03528031 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03528031).

Effect of the Fermented Soy Q-CAN® Product on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Oxidation in Adults with Cardiovascular Risk, and Canonical Correlations between the Inflammation Biomarkers and Blood Lipids

Systemic low-grade inflammation plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) but the process may be modulated by consuming fermented soy foods. Here, we aim to evaluate the effect of a fermented soy powder Q-CAN^® on inflammatory and oxidation biomarkers in subjects with cardiovascular risk. In a randomized crossover trial, 27 adults (mean age ± SD, 51.6 ± 13.5 y) with a mean BMI ± SD of 32.3 ± 7.3 kg/m² consumed 25 g daily of the fermented soy powder or an isoenergic control powder of sprouted brown rice for 12 weeks each. Between-treatment results showed a 12% increase in interleukin-1 receptor agonist (IL-1Ra) in the treatment group, whereas within-treatment results showed 23% and 7% increases in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and total antioxidant status (TAS), respectively. The first canonical correlation coefficient (r = 0.72) between inflammation markers and blood lipids indicated a positive association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and IL-1Ra with LDL-C and a negative association with HDL-C that explained 62% of the variability in the biomarkers. These outcomes suggest that blood lipids and inflammatory markers are highly correlated and that ingestion of the fermented soy powder Q-CAN^® may increase IL-1Ra, IL-6, and TAS in individuals with CVD risk factors.

Effect of Nuts on Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: A Narrative Review

Oxidative stress and inflammation are mediators in the pathophysiology of several non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Tree nuts and peanuts lower risk factors of cardiometabolic disease, including blood lipids, blood pressure and insulin resistance, among others. Given their strong antioxidant/anti-inflammatory potential, it is plausible that nuts may also exert a favorable effect on inflammation and oxidative stress. Evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses of cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest a modest protective effect of total nuts; however, the evidence is inconsistent for specific nut types. In this narrative review, the state of evidence to date is summarized for the effect of nut intake on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress, and an attempt is made to define the gaps in research while providing a framework for future research. Overall, it appears that some nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, may favorably modify inflammation, and others, such as Brazil nuts, may favorably influence oxidative stress. There is a pressing need for large RCTs with an adequate sample size that consider different nut types, and the dose and duration of nut intervention, while evaluating a robust set of biomarkers for inflammation and oxidative stress. Building a stronger evidence base is important, especially since oxidative stress and inflammation are mediators of many NCDs and can benefit both personalized and public health nutrition.

Macadamia nut effects on cardiometabolic risk factors: a randomised trial

We sought to examine the effects of daily consumption of macadamia nuts on body weight and composition, plasma lipids and glycaemic parameters in a free-living environment in overweight and obese adults at elevated cardiometabolic risk. Utilising a randomised cross-over design, thirty-five adults with abdominal obesity consumed their usual diet plus macadamia nuts (~15 % of daily calories) for 8 weeks (intervention) and their usual diet without nuts for 8 weeks (control), with a 2-week washout. Body composition was determined by bioelectrical impedance; dietary intake was assessed with 24-h dietary recalls. Consumption of macadamia nuts led to increased total fat and MUFA intake while SFA intake was unaltered. With mixed model regression analysis, no significant changes in mean weight, BMI, waist circumference, percent body fat or glycaemic parameters, and non-significant reductions in plasma total cholesterol of 2⋅1 % (-4⋅3 mg/dl; 95 % CI -14⋅8, 6⋅1) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) of 4 % (-4⋅7 mg/dl; 95 % CI -14⋅3, 4⋅8) were observed. Cholesterol-lowering effects were modified by adiposity: greater lipid lowering occurred in those with overweight v. obesity, and in those with less than the median percent body fat. Daily consumption of macadamia nuts does not lead to gains in weight or body fat under free-living conditions in overweight or obese adults; non-significant cholesterol lowering occurred without altering saturated fat intake of similar magnitude to cholesterol lowering seen with other nuts. Clinical Trial Registry Number and Website: NCT03801837 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03801837?term = macadamia + nut&draw = 2&rank = 1.

A-257 The Relationship between BMI, Sleep Quality, and Cognitive Performance among Overweight Adults

Objective: The primary objective is to examine the main effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) and sleep quality on cognitive performance.

Method: Adults between the ages of 25-84 (n=217) were recruited for the Loma Linda University Healthy Avocado Trial study. Participants had a mean age of 49.61 (SD=13.13), mean education of 14.66 years (SD=2.44), and a mean BMI of 33.87 (SD=5.48). Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI), and cognition was measured using a two-hour neurocognitive battery including tests of attention/working memory (WM), processing speed, executive function, and learning/memory. A hierarchical regression analysis was performed to examine the effects of BMI and sleep quality on cognitive performance, while controlling for age, sex, and education.

Results: There were no significant main effects of either BMI or sleep quality on cognitive performance. However, strong trends were observed for the effect of BMI on attention (b=0.127, t(211)=1.883, p=0.061) and learning/memory (b=0.126, t(211)=1.948, p=0.057). Trends were also observed for an effect of PSQI on executive function (b=-0.115, t(211)=-1.834, p=0.069) and processing speed (b=-0.106, t(211)=-1.774, p=0.077).

Conclusion(s): While it was expected that both BMI and poor sleep quality would be associated with reduced cognitive performance, significant main effects were not found. Trends were observed for an effect of BMI on attention and memory, and of sleep quality on executive function and processing speed. One hypothesis for these results is that the deleterious effects of BMI and poor sleep may not manifest until later adulthood and may be weaker or not detected in younger adults.

Effect of Incorporating 1 Avocado Per Day Versus Habitual Diet on Visceral Adiposity: A Randomized Trial

Background

Excess visceral adiposity is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic disorders. Short‐term well‐controlled clinical trials suggest that regular avocado consumption favorably affects body weight, visceral adiposity, and satiety.

Methods and Results

The HAT Trial (Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial) was a multicenter, randomized, controlled parallel‐arm trial designed to test whether consuming 1 large avocado per day for 6 months in a diverse group of free‐living individuals (N=1008) with an elevated waist circumference compared with a habitual diet would decrease visceral adiposity as measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Secondary and additional end points related to risk factors associated with cardiometabolic disorders were assessed. The primary outcome, change in visceral adipose tissue volume during the intervention period, was not significantly different between the Avocado Supplemented and Habitual Diet Groups (estimated mean difference (0.017 L [−0.024 L, 0.058 L], P =0.405). No significant group differences were observed for the secondary outcomes of hepatic fat fraction, hsCRP (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein), and components of the metabolic syndrome. Of the additional outcome measures, modest but nominally significant reductions in total and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were observed in the Avocado Supplemented compared with the Habitual Diet Group. Changes in the other additional and post hoc measures (body weight, body mass index, insulin, very low‐density lipoprotein concentrations, and total cholesterol:high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio) were similar between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Addition of 1 avocado per day to the habitual diet for 6 months in free‐living individuals with elevated waist circumference did not reduce visceral adipose tissue volume and had minimal effect on risk factors associated with cardiometabolic disorders.

Registration

URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT03528031.

Assessment of safety culture in the fireworks industry

Workers in the fireworks industry are affected mentally because of hazards that occurred in and around the working environment which caused injuries/fire accidents due to carelessness of workers and poor maintenance of rules and regulations by management. Primary data were collected from 451 workers in 25 fireworks industries randomly. A structured questionnaire is developed to measure safety culture in the fireworks industry in terms of dimensions like work environment, worker awareness, process, governance and safety satisfaction. This instrument is tested for purification of items in terms of stability by various statistical tests like reliability and validity in statistical software like SPSS and AMOS. This field-based study examines safety culture among workers in the fireworks industry to find the real scenario in the workplace and give recommendations for management to control accidents and fire or explosions to save the lives of workers.

The Effect of Walnut Supplementation on Dietary Polyphenol Intake in the Walnuts and Healthy Aging Study (WAHA)

Objectives

The effect of a daily walnut supplement on the intake of total dietary polyphenols and subclasses in a free-living elderly population.

Methods

In this 2-year prospective, randomized intervention trial, dietary polyphenol intake of participants who added walnuts daily to their diets at 15% of daily energy were compared to those in the control group that consumed a walnut-free habitual diet. Walnut group participants received 28, 42, or 56 g/d of packaged walnuts. Dietary polyphenols and subclasses were estimated from multiple unannounced 24-hours dietary recalls, and nutrient data were obtained using the Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR) software version 2013 (Nutrition Coordinating Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN). Phenolic estimates were derived from Phenol-Explorer database version 3.6 (June 2015). All polyphenol intake variables were energy-adjusted, and Mann-Whitney tests were used for comparison between treatments. Total polyphenol rich foods were categorized into food groups and ranked from highest to lowest per contributing food sources.

Results

Compared to the control group, participants in the walnut group had a higher intake of total polyphenol, total flavonoids, flavanols, and phenolic acid in mg/d (IQR): 2480 (1955, 3145) vs 1897 (1369, 2496) (P &lt; 0.001); 56 (42, 84) vs 29 (15, 54) (P &lt; 0.001); 174 (90, 298) vs 140 (61, 277) (p = 0.036); and 368 (246, 569) vs 242 (89, 398) (P &lt; 0.001) respectively. Food categories contributing to total dietary polyphenols per 100 grams of intake ranked from highest to lowest in mg/d (SD) were: beverages 846 (726), fruits 397 (334), nuts and seeds 344 (329), legumes 281 (619), vegetables 248 (258), grains 127 (139), chocolates 100 (233), spices 26 (77), and fats/oils 7 (6).

Conclusions

The walnut group had a higher intake of dietary polyphenols compared to those in the control group. Nuts and seeds were the third highest contributing source of total polyphenol in the diets of participants in this study, suggesting that a single food like walnuts added to the daily diet can increase polyphenol intake in a population.

Funding Sources

This study was supported by a grant from the California Walnut Commission, Sacramento, CA, USA.

n-3 index is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors but is not improved by walnut intake in free-living elderly: a single-blind, randomised controlled trial

n-3 index, the erythrocyte proportion of the EPA + DHA fatty acids is a clinical marker of age-related disease risk. It is unclear whether regular intake of α-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-derived n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, raises n-3 index in older adults. Of the 356 participants at the Loma Linda, CA centre from the original study, a randomly selected subset (n 192) was included for this secondary analysis (mostly Caucasian women, mean age 69 years). Participants were assigned to either the walnut (15 % of daily energy from walnuts) or the control group (usual diet, no walnuts) for 2 years. Erythrocyte fatty acids were determined at baseline and 1-year following intervention. No differences were observed for erythrocyte EPA, but erythrocyte DHA decreased albeit modestly in the walnut group (-0·125 %) and slightly improved in the control group (0·17 %). The change in n-3 index between the walnut and control groups was significantly different only among fish consumers (those who ate fish ≥ once/month). Longitudinal analyses combining both groups showed significant inverse association between the 1-year changes of the n-3 index and fasting plasma TAG (ß = -10), total cholesterol (ß = -5·59) and plasma glucose (ß = -0·27). Consuming ALA-rich walnuts failed to improve n-3 index in elders. A direct source of EPA/DHA may be needed to achieve desirable n-3 index, as it is inversely associated with cardiometabolic risk. Nevertheless, incorporating walnuts as part of heart healthy diets is still encouraged.

Interplay of Walnut Consumption, Changes in Circulating miRNAs and Reduction in LDL-Cholesterol in Elders

The mechanisms underlying the lipid-lowering effect of nuts remain elusive. This study explores whether one-year supplementation with walnuts decreases LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) by affecting the expression of circulating microRNAs (c-miRNA). In this sub-study of the Walnuts and Healthy Aging (WAHA) trial, we obtained fasting serum at baseline and at 1 year from 330 free-living participants (63–79 year, 68% women), allocated into a control group (CG, abstinence from walnuts, n = 164) and a walnut group (WG, 15% of daily energy as walnuts, ~30–60 g/d, n = 166). Participants in the WG showed a 1 year decrease in LDL-C (−9.07, (95% confidence interval: −12.87; −5.73) mg/dL; p = 0.010 versus changes in the CG). We conducted a miRNA array in eight randomly selected participants in the WG who decreased in LDL-C. This yielded 53 c-miRNAs with statistically significant changes, 27 of which survived the correction for multiple testing. When validating them in the full population, statistical significance lasted for hsa-miR-551a, being upregulated in the WG. In mediation analysis, the change in hsa-miR-551a was unrelated to LDL-C decrease. Long-term supplementation with walnuts decreased LDL-C independently of the changes in c-miRNA. The hsa-miR-551a upregulation, which has been linked to a reduced cell migration and invasion in several carcinomas, suggests a novel mechanism of walnuts in cancer risk.

Dietary Animal to Plant Protein Ratio Is Associated with Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome in Participants of the AHS-2 Calibration Study

BACKGROUND

Few research studies have focused on the effects of dietary protein on metabolic syndrome and its components. Our objective was to determine the relationship between the type of dietary protein intake and animal to plant (AP) protein ratio with metabolic syndrome and its components.

METHODS

This population-based study had a cross sectional design and conducted on 518 participants of the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2) Calibration Study. Two sets of three dietary 24-h recalls were obtained six months apart. Anthropometric measures and biochemical tests were performed in clinics. Regression calibration models were used to determine the association of type of dietary protein with metabolic syndrome and its components (raised triglyceride, raised blood pressure, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), raised fasting blood glucose and increased waist circumference).

RESULTS

The likelihood of metabolic syndrome was lower in those with higher total dietary protein and animal protein intake (p = 0.02).Total protein (β = 0.004, [95%CI: 0.002, 0.007]), animal protein intake (β = 0.004, [95%CI: 0.001, 0.007]) and AP protein intake ratio (β = 0.034, [95%CI: 0.021, 0.047]) were positively associated with waist circumference. Higher AP protein ratio was related to higher fasting blood glucose (β = 0.023, [95%CI: 0.005, 0.041]).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that considering a significant amount of plant protein as a part of total dietary protein has beneficial effects on cardiometabolic risk factors.

Interaction of Diet/Lifestyle Intervention and TCF7L2 Genotype on Glycemic Control and Adiposity among Overweight or Obese Adults: Big Data from Seven Randomized Controlled Trials Worldwide

Objective. The strongest locus which associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by the common variant rs7903146 is the transcription factor 7-like 2 gene (TCF7L2). We aimed to quantify the interaction of diet/lifestyle interventions and the genetic effect of TCF7L2 rs7903146 on glycemic traits, body weight, or waist circumference in overweight or obese adults in several randomized controlled trials (RCTs).Methods. From October 2016 to May 2018, a large collaborative analysis was performed by pooling individual-participant data from 7 RCTs. These RCTs reported changes in glycemic control and adiposity of the variant rs7903146 after dietary/lifestyle-related interventions in overweight or obese adults. Gene treatment interaction models which used the genetic effect encoded by the allele dose and common covariates were applicable to individual participant data in all studies.Results. In the joint analysis, a total of 7 eligible RCTs were included (n = 4,114 ). Importantly, we observed a significant effect modification of diet/lifestyle-related interventions on the TCF7L2 variant rs7903146 and changes in fasting glucose. Compared with the control group, diet/lifestyle interventions were related to lower fasting glucose by -3.06 (95% CI, -5.77 to -0.36) mg/dL (test for heterogeneity and overall effect: I 2 = 45.1 % , p < 0.05 ; z = 2.20 , p = 0.028 ) per one copy of the TCF7L2 T risk allele. Furthermore, regardless of genetic risk, diet/lifestyle interventions were associated with lower waist circumference. However, there was no significant change for diet/lifestyle interventions in other glycemic control and adiposity traits per one copy of TCF7L2 risk allele.Conclusions. Our findings suggest that carrying the TCF7L2 T risk allele may have a modestly greater benefit for specific diet/lifestyle interventions to improve the control of fasting glucose in overweight or obese adults.

Literature Review on History and Pharmacotherapy of Parkinson`s Disease

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by: Pill rolling tremors, Akathisia (inability to sit still), Rigidity, Kinesis (akinesia, dyskinesia), Instable (stooped) posture, no arm swinging in rhythm with legs, Sialorrhea Oculogyric crisiseyes are held fixed for a variable length of time), Nervous depression, Involuntary tremors, Seborrhoea and Masked facial expression. Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder with an estimated prevalence of 31 to 328 per 100,000 people worldwide. It is estimated that more than 1 percent of the population over age 65 are afflicted with Parkinson’s disease; incidence and prevalence increase with age. There are numerous unanswered questions regarding the diagnosis and management of Parkinson’s disease. Surgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease is generally considered for patients who respond to medications but have intolerable side effects. Surgical options include ablative procedures, deep brain stimulation, and tissue transplantation. This review focused on History and management of Parkinson’s disease. The purpose of this literature review is to gain an understanding of the existing research relevant to history and pharmacotherapy of Parkinson’s disease. Conclusion: Pharmacological treatment of PD should be tailored to the individual patient. Drug therapy is not obligatory in early PD; many patients can be managed for a time with exercise and lifestyle interventions. For patients with mild symptoms, MAO-B inhibitors, amantadine, or (in younger patients) anticholinergics are reasonable choices.

The design and rationale of a multi-center randomized clinical trial comparing one avocado per day to usual diet: The Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial (HAT)

Excess visceral adiposity is associated with increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In the U.S. approximately 60% of adults have visceral obesity. Despite high calorie and fat, small, well-controlled clinical studies suggest that avocado consumption has favorable effects on body weight and visceral adiposity. Additionally, short-term studies also suggest that consuming avocados increases satiety, hence, may decrease overall energy intake. The Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial HAT is a multi-center, randomized, controlled trial designed to test whether in a large, diverse cohort providing one avocado per day for consumption for six months compared to a habitual diet essentially devoid of avocados, will result in a decrease in visceral adiposity as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in individuals with an increased waist circumference (WC). Additional outcome measures include hepatic lipid content, plasma lipid profiles, blood pressure and high sensitivity C-reactive protein. Inclusion criteria were increased WC and not currently eating more than two avocados per month. Major exclusion criteria were not eating or being allergic to avocados, and not willing or able to undergo MRI scans. From June 27, 2018 to March 4, 2020, 1008 participants were randomized at 4 clinics. The cohort was 72% women, 53% Non-Hispanic White, and had a mean age of 50 years. Follow-up was completed in October 2020 when 936 participants had final MRI scans. HAT will provide information on the effects of avocado consumption on visceral fat adiposity and cardiometabolic disease risk in a diverse sample of participants.

One-year dietary supplementation with walnuts modifies exosomal miRNA in elderly subjects

PURPOSE

Epidemiological studies and clinical trials support the association of nut consumption with a lower risk of prevalent non-communicable diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying nut benefits remain to be fully described. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play a pivotal role in health and disease. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles released from cells and mediate intercellular communication. Whether nut consumption modulates circulating miRNAs (c-miRNAs) transported in exosomes is poorly described.

METHODS

Cognitively healthy elderly subjects were randomized to either control (n = 110, abstaining from walnuts) or daily supplementation with walnuts (15% of their total energy, ≈30-60 g/day, n = 101) for 1-year. C-miRNAs were screened in exosomes isolated from 10 samples, before and after supplementation, and identified c-miRNA candidates were validated in the whole cohort. In addition, nanoparticle tracking analysis and lipidomics were assessed in pooled exosomes from the whole cohort.

RESULTS

Exosomal hsa-miR-32-5p and hsa-miR-29b-3p were consistently induced by walnut consumption. No major changes in exosomal lipids, nanoparticle concentration or size were found.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide novel evidence that certain c-miRNAs transported in exosomes are modulated by walnut consumption. The extent to which this finding contributes to the benefits of walnuts deserves further research.

A Non-Probiotic Fermented Soy Product Reduces Total and LDL Cholesterol: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

Traditional Asian fermented soy food products are associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk in prospective studies, but few randomized controlled trials have been conducted in at-risk populations. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a commercial non-probiotic fermented soy product on blood lipids in adults with cardiovascular risk biomarkers. In a randomized, crossover, intervention study, 27 men and women (aged 29–75 y) exhibiting at least two risk factors, consumed two packets (12.5 g each) daily of a fermented powdered soy product, or an isoenergic control powder made from germinated brown rice for 12 weeks each. The consumption of the fermented soy product resulted in a significantly greater mean change from baseline (compared to the germinated rice, all p < 0.05) in total cholesterol of −0.23 mmol/L (CI: −0.40, −0.06) compared with 0.14 mmol/L (CI: −0.03, 0.31), respectively; and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol −0.18 mmol/L (CI: −0.32, −0.04) compared with 0.04 mmol/L (CI: −0.01, 0.018) respectively. This was accompanied by an increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the germinated rice group, a decrease in apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in the fermented soy group, and a between-treatment effect in apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1); however, the ratio of the LDL:HDL and of Apo B:ApoA1 did not differ between the groups. The ratio of total cholesterol:LDL decreased in men in the fermented soy group (p < 0.001). Twenty-four-hour urine collection at the end of each treatment period resulted in an increased excretion expressed as a ratio in μmol/d between treatments of 10.93 (CI: 5.07, 23.54) for daidzein; 1.24 (CI: 1.14, 4.43) for genistein; and, 8.48 (CI: 4.28, 16.80) for glycitein, all p < 0.05. The fermented soy powder consumed by participants in this study without implementing other changes in their typical diets, decreased the total and LDL cholesterol, and may serve as a dietary strategy to manage blood lipids. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03429920.

The Perceived Impact of Macadamia Nut Consumption on Feelings of Satisfaction and Bowel Function

Objectives

To assess subject perception of their level of various components of satisfaction, and changes in bowel habits, while consuming macadamia nuts during a free-living intervention study.

Methods

This was a randomized, crossover study in which free-living subjects (n = 35) were allocated to an 8 week macadamia nut (15% kcals) intervention and control (usual diet) phases. Eligibility criteria included a BMI of 25–39 kg/m,2, abdominal obesity, and presence of at least 1 other cardiometabolic risk factor. Subjects attended a biweekly clinic with the study dietitians to receive a supply of pre-weighed daily portions of nuts (mixture of raw and roasted), instructions and reinforcement on ways to incorporate the nuts into their habitual diet. A 14-item macadamia nut satisfaction questionnaire was administered at the end of the study, to assess various factors including perceptions of taste, ease of use, ease of preparation of the nut, and fullness. A 9-item bowel habits questionnaire was administered at the end of both the treatment and control phases, assessing factors including bowel frequency, perceptions of change in digestion, and stool consistency, using the Bristol Stool chart. Subject responses to the satisfaction questionnaire were calculated as proportions. Bowel movement frequency, and stool type were compared between the macadamia nut and control phases using the Wilcoxon signed rank sum test.

Results

Most subjects liked the taste (89%) of macadamia nuts, found the nuts easy to use (95%), and incorporate (95%) into their daily diet, and did not feel deprived (86%) while eating macadamia nuts. About half of the subjects felt strongly that macadamia nuts added flavor and variety to their diets, and 80% really liked including macadamia nuts into their habitual diet. In terms of bowel function, no significant difference in bowel movement frequency was noted between the macadamia and control phases. Stool consistency (Bristol stool assessment) was significantly different between the macadamia and control phases (P = 0.049).

Conclusions

Most subjects indicated favorable perceptions towards, and satisfaction with macadamia nuts. Self-reported stool consistency was different between the macadamia and control phases.

Funding Sources

Hort Innovation, Sydney, Australia.

Acute Effects of Avocado Consumption on Cognition: Preliminary Results

Objectives

While touted for their health benefits, research on the effects of avocado consumption on health is limited. Given their dense content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), carotenoids, fiber, and micronutrients, avocados have the potential to boost cognitive function. It has been shown that diets rich in MUFA may improve global cognitive performance and prevent cognitive decline. The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin may also enhance brain function. Only one randomized trial assessing the effects of avocado intake on cognition has been published to date, and the results were positive. The objective of this current study is to determine if consuming a meal of avocado on toast yields measurable changes in cognitive performance.

Methods

Using a randomized 2 × 2 cross-over design, acute cognitive changes were assessed via a 25-minute long test battery in 27 participants after an isocaloric test meal of either avocado on wheat toast or cream cheese and jelly on wheat toast. After an approximately 2-week wash out period, participants returned to complete the study protocol with the alternate meal. Verbal learning and memory, working memory, processing speed, semantic fluency, and global cognition were measured in the fasting state and again in the postprandial state (3 hours after consumption of the breakfast test meal). Linear mixed models analysis was used to determine if meal type provided any significant boost in acute cognitive scores.

Results

The following fixed effects were included in the model: visit number, sequence of intervention, test meal, age, pre/post measures, and interaction between test meal and pre/post measures. Subjects were included as a random effect. No significant differences between intervention groups in pre/post measures were detected.

Conclusions

These preliminary results need to be confirmed with a larger sample (currently underway). Also, given the nutrient composition of avocados, it is possible that longer term studies may yield different results.

Funding Sources

Hass Avocado Board, Mission Viejo, CA.

Effect of Daily Macadamia Nut Consumption on Anthropometric Indices in Overweight and Obese Men and Women

Objectives

We sought to assess the effect of daily consumption of macadamia nuts as 15% of calories on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, percent body fat and skeletal muscle mass in overweight/obese men and women with elevated cardiometabolic risk.

Methods

Utilizing a randomized crossover design, we randomized 38 subjects to consume macadamia nuts daily as 15% of calories for 8 weeks (intervention) and their usual diet for 8 weeks (control), with a 2-week washout. Three subjects dropped out early; n = 35 for analysis. Subjects were healthy men and postmenopausal women with a BMI of 25–39, a waist circumference of &gt;101.6 cm for men and &gt;88.9 cm for women, and one additional cardiovascular risk factor (fasting plasma glucose &gt;100 mg/dL, triglycerides ≥150 mg/dl, total cholesterol &gt;200 mg/dL, LDL-C &gt; 100 mg/dL, blood pressure ≥130/85 mmHg or taking anti-hypertensive medication). Macadamia nuts were provided in pre-weighed daily portions as 15% of calories calculated using the Mifflin-St. Jeor equation. Percent body fat and skeletal muscle mass (kg) were determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis. A mixed model analysis was performed with treatment, sequence, phase, and baseline values as fixed-effect terms and subjects as a random-effects term.

Results

Compared to control, consumption of macadamia nuts led to a mean weight change of –348 g (84.13 vs. 83.78 kg; P = 0.15) a mean BMI change of –0.15 kg/m2 (30.61 vs. 30.47 kg/m2; P = 0.12), and a mean waist circumference change of 0.17 cm (107.41 vs. 107.58 cm; P = 0.61). Percent body fat increased by an average of 0.26% after eating nuts (42.70 vs. 42.96%; P = 0.16). Skeletal muscle mass was slightly but significantly lower after eating nuts with a mean change of –0.237 kg (26.33 vs. 26.09 kg; P = 0.017).

Conclusions

Daily consumption of high-fat macadamia nuts for eight weeks in overweight and obese individuals did not change anthropometrics including body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and % body fat. Skeletal muscle mass was slightly lowered but likely not clinically relevant.

Funding Sources

Hort Innovation, Sydney, Australia.

Daily Macadamia Nut Intake and Its Effect on Macronutrient Intake and Nutrient Displacement in Overweight and Obese Adults

Objectives

To determine the effect of daily intake of macadamia nuts on macronutrient intake and nutrient displacement in overweight and obese adults in a randomized crossover study.

Methods

This randomized cross-over study was comprised of two phases, each lasting eight weeks. Participants (n = 35) were randomly assigned first to either the intervention (15% of calorie needs from macadamia nuts) or control (habitual diet) phase, with a two-week washout followed by the other phase. A total of six 24-hour recalls, two at baseline and two during each phase were conducted. Period adjustment t-test was used to determine the differences in macronutrient intake between the two phases. The displacement of nutrients was done by subtracting the observed intake of a particular nutrient from its’ expected intake.

Results

Compared to the control phase, there were marginal increases in the consumption of total energy (mean diff = 145 kcal), total fiber (mean diff = 2 g) and a significant increase in the consumption of total fat (mean diff = 35 g, P &lt; 0.001). In addition, there was a significant increase in consumption of palmitoleic acid (mean diff = 5 g) and oleic acid (mean diff = 11 g, P &lt; 0.001). However, the total saturated fat intake between the two phases was non-significant. There was a non-significant decrease in protein and carbohydrate intake. The displacement analysis revealed that participants had lower intakes of energy, protein and carbohydrates than predicted, with carbohydrates having the highest displacement of the nutrients.

Conclusions

The inclusion of macadamia nuts is associated with a marginal reduction of carbohydrate intake and an increase intake of monounsaturated fat which may have favorable health outcomes, but remains to be investigated.

Funding Sources

Hort Innovation, Sydney, Australia.

Effect of a 2-year diet intervention with walnuts on cognitive decline. The Walnuts And Healthy Aging (WAHA) study: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Walnut consumption counteracts oxidative stress and inflammation, 2 drivers of cognitive decline. Clinical data concerning effects on cognition are lacking.

OBJECTIVES

The Walnuts And Healthy Aging study is a 2-center (Barcelona, Spain; Loma Linda, CA) randomized controlled trial examining the cognitive effects of a 2-y walnut intervention in cognitively healthy elders.

METHODS

We randomly allocated 708 free-living elders (63-79 y, 68% women) to a diet enriched with walnuts at ∼15% energy (30-60 g/d) or a control diet (abstention from walnuts). We administered a comprehensive neurocognitive test battery at baseline and 2 y. Change in the global cognition composite was the primary outcome. We performed repeated structural and functional brain MRI in 108 Barcelona participants.

RESULTS

A total of 636 participants completed the intervention. Besides differences in nutrient intake, participants from Barcelona smoked more, were less educated, and had lower baseline neuropsychological test scores than those from Loma Linda. Walnuts were well tolerated and compliance was good. Modified intention-to-treat analyses (n = 657) uncovered no between-group differences in the global cognitive composite, with mean changes of -0.072 (95% CI: -0.100, -0.043) in the walnut diet group and -0.086 (95% CI: -0.115, -0.057) in the control diet group (P = 0.491). Post hoc analyses revealed significant differences in the Barcelona cohort, with unadjusted changes of -0.037 (95% CI: -0.077, 0.002) in the walnut group and -0.097 (95% CI: -0.137, -0.057) in controls (P = 0.040). Results of brain fMRI in a subset of Barcelona participants indicated greater functional network recruitment in a working memory task in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Walnut supplementation for 2 y had no effect on cognition in healthy elders. However, brain fMRI and post hoc analyses by site suggest that walnuts might delay cognitive decline in subgroups at higher risk. These encouraging but inconclusive results warrant further investigation, particularly targeting disadvantaged populations, in whom greatest benefit could be expected.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01634841.

Effect of a Walnut Diet on Office and 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Elderly Individuals

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Nut consumption lowers blood cholesterol and is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease, but effects on blood pressure (BP) are inconsistent. We assessed the 2-year effects of a walnut diet versus a control diet on office BP and 24-hours ambulatory BP in free-living elders participating in the Walnuts and Healthy Aging study, a randomized trial testing the effects of walnuts at ≈15% energy on age-related disorders. In a prespecified analysis, we enrolled 305 participants, of whom 236 (75%) completed the study (65% women; age, 69 years; 60% with mild hypertension). Walnuts were well tolerated, and compliance was >98%. Mean baseline office BP was 128/79 mm Hg. Adjusted changes from baseline in mean office systolic BP were −4.61 mm Hg (95% CI, −7.43 to −1.79 mm Hg) in the walnut group and −0.59 mm Hg (−3.38 to 2.21 mm Hg) in controls (P=0.051). Respective changes in mean systolic 24-hour ambulatory BP were −3.86 mm Hg (CI, −5.45 to −2.26 mm Hg) and −2.00 mm Hg (CI, −3.58 to −0.42 mm Hg; P=0.111). No changes in diastolic BP were observed. In participants in the upper tertile of baseline 24-hour ambulatory systolic BP (>125 mm Hg), mean 2-year systolic 24-hour BP was −8.5 mm Hg (CI, −12 to −5.0 mm Hg) in the walnut group and −2.5 mm Hg (CI, −6.3 to 1.3 mm Hg) in controls (P=0.034). During the trial, participants in the walnut group required less uptitration of antihypertensive medication and had better overall BP regulation than controls. Walnut consumption reduces systolic BP in elderly subjects, particularly in those with mild hypertension.

Plant-Based Dietary Patterns, Plant Foods, and Age-Related Cognitive Decline

The aging population is expanding, as is the prevalence of age-related cognitive decline (ARCD). Of the several risk factors that predict the onset and progression of ARCD, 2 important modifiable risk factors are diet and physical activity. Dietary patterns that emphasize plant foods can exert neuroprotective effects. In this comprehensive review, we examine studies in humans of plant-based dietary patterns and polyphenol-rich plant foods and their role in either preventing ARCD and/or improving cognitive function. As yet, there is no direct evidence to support the benefits of a vegetarian diet in preventing cognitive decline. However, there is emerging evidence for brain-health-promoting effects of several plant foods rich in polyphenols, anti-inflammatory dietary patterns, and plant-based dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. The bioactive compounds present in these dietary patterns include antioxidant vitamins, polyphenols, other phytochemicals, and unsaturated fatty acids. In animal models these nutrients and non-nutrients have been shown to enhance neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal survival by reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. In this review, we summarize the mounting evidence in favor of plant-centered dietary patterns, inclusive of polyphenol-rich foods for cognitive well-being. Randomized clinical trials support the role of plant foods (citrus fruits, grapes, berries, cocoa, nuts, green tea, and coffee) in improving specific domains of cognition, most notably frontal executive function. We also identify knowledge gaps and recommend future studies to identify whether plant-exclusive diets have an added cognitive advantage compared with plant-centered diets with fish and/or small amounts of animal foods.

The Omega-3 Index and Long-term Walnut Consumption in Elderly Participants of the WAHA Study (P08-107-19)

Objectives

To determine if consuming walnuts daily for 2 years would improve the omega-3 index in healthy elderly compared to habitual diet without walnuts.

Methods

Design: Secondary analysis of the Walnuts and Healthy Aging (WAHA) study, a 2-year, randomized controlled clinical trial, conducted in Loma Linda University, CA, USA and Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain. Subjects were randomly assigned to either a walnut or a control group.

Study Population

Included 193 WAHA study subjects from the Loma Linda center only, whose blood samples were collected and analyzed for RBC fatty acids.

Statistical analysis

To assess whether the changes of the Omega-3 index from baseline to year 1 and baseline to year 2 are significantly different between the walnut and control groups. Unstructured covariance model best fitted the data and was utilized. Then, repeated measures analyses were conducted to assess the delta change differences based on generalized least squares model.

Results

Omega-3 index did not significantly change between baseline and year 1 in either group. The index significantly increased by 1.5% (P < 0.001) in walnut group and by 1.8% (P < 0.001) in control group between baseline and year 2. This between-group difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Preliminary findings suggest that consuming walnuts, a rich source of ALA, may not be adequate to improve the omega-3 index compared to a walnut free habitual diet. Background intake of EPA and DHA may have a more pronounced influence on the index and needs to be further explored.

Funding Sources

California Walnut Commission, Folsom, CA.

The Effect of Soybean Lunasin on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Lunasin, a peptide isolated from soybeans, has been shown to exert antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and hypocholesterolemic effects in animal and in vitro models. In a triple-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, 31 participants (female: 19, male: 12, mean age 61 ± 9.9 years) were randomized to an 8-week treatment of lunasin-enriched soy extract (335mg/d) or placebo. A 3-week washout period was utilized between treatments. Serum lipids, glucose, and insulin, as well as blood pressure and anthropometrics, were measured at baseline, week 7, and week 8 of each treatment period. There were nonsignificant reductions in cardiometabolic risk factors with treatment: total cholesterol -0.1mmol/L, 95% CI [-0.28, 0.03]; LDL cholesterol -0.07mmol/L, 95% CI [-0.2, 0.06]; triglyceride 0% mmol/L, 95% CI (-10%, 11%]; fasting serum glucose -2% mmol/L, 95% CI [-4%, 1%]; BMI -0.05 kg/m2, 95% CI [-0.17, 0.07] and waist circumference -0.63cm, 95% CI [-1.8, 0.53]. Supplementation with lunasin-enriched soy extract for 8 weeks did not result in significant changes in serum lipids, glucose, insulin resistance, blood pressure, BMI, or waist circumference. Future studies should focus on a higher dosage, larger sample size, and/or longer treatment to determine the independent role of lunasin, if any, in the effect of soy on cardiometabolic risk factors.

Walnut Consumption for Two Years and Leukocyte Telomere Attrition in Mediterranean Elders: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Randomized controlled trials on diet and shortening of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) mostly focus on marine-derived n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Walnuts are a sustainable source of n-3 PUFA. We investigated whether inclusion of walnuts (15% of energy) in the diet for 2 years would maintain LTL in cognitively healthy elders (63–79 years old) compared to a control group (habitual diet, abstaining from walnuts). This opportunistic sub-study was conducted within the Walnuts and Healthy Aging study, a dual-centre (Barcelona, Spain and Loma Linda University, California) parallel trial. A sub-set of the Barcelona site participants were randomly assigned to the walnut (n = 80) or control group (n = 69). We assessed LTL at baseline and at 2 years and we conducted repeated-measures ANCOVA with 2 factors: time (baseline, 2 years) and group (control, walnut) and their interaction. Adjusted means (95% confidence interval) of LTL (in kb) in controls were 7.360 (7.084,7.636) at baseline and 7.061 (6.835,7.288) after 2 years; corresponding values in the walnut group were 7.064 (6.807,7.320) and 7.074 (6.864,7.284). The time × intervention interaction was nearly significant (p = 0.079), suggestive of a trend of walnut consumption in preserving LTL. This exploratory research finding should be confirmed in trials with adequate statistical power.

2556. Retrospective Evaluation of Mismatch From Egg-Based Isolation of Influenza Strains Compared With Cell-Based Isolation and the Possible Implications for Vaccine Effectiveness

Background

Lower influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) against circulating H3N2 strains compared with other influenza viruses is partly explained by antigenic mismatch between circulating strains and the vaccine strain (Belongia 2016). This mismatch has recently been linked to a new glycosylation site introduced in the egg-adaptation step (Zost 2017) and HA L194P substitution (Wu 2017) for H3N2. Vaccine manufactured using seed virus wholly grown in mammalian (e.g., Madin–Darby Canine Kidney—MDCK) cells, as with the NH17-18 version of Flucelvax®, avoids these mutations. Preliminary reports suggest that this cell-based vaccine showed greater VE than did similar egg-based vaccines [FDA Statement]. This study aimed to compile existing data on antigenic similarity to measure the degree of match with circulating wild-type isolates of egg- and MDCK-propagated versions of the vaccine H3N2 virus over multiple seasons.

Methods

Using publicly available reports from the Worldwide Influenza Centre, London (Crick), we compiled data on antigenic similarity, defined as H3N2 circulating wild-type virus isolates showing no more than a 4-fold reduction in titer to antisera raised against wholly MDCK- or egg-propagated versions of the vaccine H3N2 viruses. Titers were compared using hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays and/or plaque reduction neutralization assays (PRNA).

Results

Data from Northern Hemisphere influenza seasons of 2011–2012 to 2017–2018 show a substantially higher proportion of tested circulating influenza H3N2 viruses matched the MDCK-propagated reference viruses than did corresponding egg-propagated reference vaccine viruses (Figures 1 and 2). In half of the seasons evaluated, there was little to no antigenic similarity between circulating viruses and the egg-based vaccine viral seed.

Conclusion

These data suggest higher levels of mismatch have occurred consistently with egg-propagated H3N2 reference viruses compared with MDCK-propagated reference viruses when measured against circulating wild-type isolates and may further explain the potential for lower VE observed against H3N2 historically. Furthermore, these data point to the importance of continuing to utilize cell-derived seeds in creating seasonal influenza vaccines for this strain.

Disclosures

S. Rajaram, Seqirus: Employee, Salary. J. Van Boxmeer, Seqirus: Employee, Salary. B. Leav, Seqirus: Employee and Shareholder, Salary. P. Suphaphiphat, Seqirus: Employee, Salary. I. Iheanacho, Seqirus: Consultant, Research support. K. Kistler, Seqirus: Consultant, Research support.

Effects of Long-Term Walnut Supplementation on Body Weight in Free-Living Elderly: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To assess the effects of chronic walnut consumption on body weight and adiposity in elderly individuals. Methods: The Walnuts and Healthy Aging study is a dual-center (Barcelona, Spain and Loma Linda University (LLU)), 2-year randomized parallel trial. This report concerns only the LLU cohort. Healthy elders (mean age 69 year, 67% women) were randomly assigned to walnut (n = 183) or control diets (n = 173). Subjects in the walnut group received packaged walnuts (28–56 g/day), equivalent to ≈15% of daily energy requirements, to incorporate into their habitual diet, while those in the control group abstained from walnuts. Adiposity was measured periodically, and data were adjusted for in-trial changes in self-reported physical activity. Results: After 2 years, body weight significantly decreased (p = 0.031), while body fat significantly increased (p = 0.0001). However, no significant differences were observed between the control and walnut groups regarding body weight (−0.6 kg and −0.4 kg, respectively, p = 0.67) or body fat (+0.9% and +1.3%, respectively, p = 0.53). Lean body mass, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio remained essentially unchanged. Sensitivity analyses were consistent with the findings of primary analysis. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that walnuts can be incorporated into the daily diet of healthy elders without concern for adverse effects on body weight or body composition.

Tissue Culture Mediated Allelic Diversification and Genomic Enrichment of Wheat to Combat Production Constraints and Address Food Security

In view of the emerging population trends and that wheat crop is the major unequivocally recognized conduit towards addressing the food security challenges of 2050 this discourse embraces various research options that are viewed as possible solutions toward delivering those targets for providing nutritious food and meeting the aspirations that policy setters have debated on the subject for decades. The underlying strength for achieving these targets will require concerted efforts from plant researchers that are well integrated within effectively harnessing and utilizing prevalent genetic diversity of the wide array of alleles in a holistic pro‐active manner. We argue that the purists of basic and strategic research dimensions need to be thoughtfully defined, so that the vital target of delivering the “applied” gains are only realized from the outputs on farmer’s fields and measured by tons per hectare. In this quest, the pre‐breeding disciplines “classical mode” and its recently surfaced “modified sense” are pivotal, where within the former facet “tissue culture” (TC)/artificial culturing is embodied integrally. Taken for granted, TC has been the backbone of all wide hybridization studies and has made an enormous impact on the agricultural landscape spanning over the last six decades. With its intervention significant generic and specific incompatibilities have been overcome as well as allowing researchers to exploit the protocols for adding efficiency to breeding programs, facilitate operational technologies in running breeding programs and development of unique genetic stocks that preserve valuable allelic richness in user friendly forms for future free germplasmusage in global/private domains of plant improvement ventures.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 27(1): 89-140, 2017 (June)

Effect of Altering Dietary n-6:n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Ratio with Plant and Marine-Based Supplement on Biomarkers of Bone Turnover in Healthy Adults

Although there is accumulating evidence for a protective role of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) on bone health, there are limited studies that examine the effect of altering dietary n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio with plant and marine sources of n-3 PUFA on bone health. Healthy adults (n = 24) were randomized into an eight-week crossover study with a four-week washout between treatments, with each subject consuming three of four diets. The four diets differed in the dietary n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios and either had an algal oil supplement added or not: (Control diet (10:1); α-linolenic acid (ALA) diet (2:1); Eicosapentaenoic acid/Docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA) diet (10:1 plus supplement (S) containing EPA/DHA; Combination diet (2:1 + S)). The supplement was microalgae oil that provided 1 g EPA + DHA/day. Flaxseed oil and walnuts provided 8.6 g of ALA/day in the 2:1 diets. Serum levels of c-telopeptide (CTX), procollagen Type I N-terminal peptide, and osteocalcin showed significant correlation with age but none of the bone markers or peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor-γ mRNA expression was significantly different between the diets. Serum CTX was negatively associated with red blood cell membrane linoleic acid and ALA and positively associated with membrane DHA. Neither altering dietary n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio from a 10:1 to a 2:1 ratio nor adding EPA/DHA supplement significantly changed bone turnover in the short term in healthy adults.

A Comparison Between Measured Concentration of 3H in Kalpakkam Environment with Predicted Atmospheric Dispersion Model

The field measurements of 3H in the form of HTO present in air moisture carried out around Madras Atomic Power Station were compared with predicted values using atmospheric dispersion modeling. Air 3H samples were collected from different sectors at the site boundary of the operating reactors for the period of 2 y and compared with Gaussian Plume model. The predictions were comparable with the measured value. The slight variation observed between the two methods is attributed to the uncertainty involved in the measurement of air 3H concentration and in the measurement of site-specific meteorological parameters. The radiation dose imparted to members of public due to the levels observed is well within station technical specification limit for 3H.

Animal-Protein Intake Is Associated with Insulin Resistance in Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2) Calibration Substudy Participants: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background: High intakes of total and animal protein are associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The influence of protein type on insulin resistance, a key precursor of T2D, has not been extensively studied. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the associations between dietary total, animal, and plant protein intakes as well as the animal-to-plant protein (AP) intake ratio with insulin resistance in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analysis in 548 participants (mean ± SD age: 66.2 ± 13.7 y) from the calibration substudy of the AHS-2 (Adventist Health Study 2) cohort. Participants consumed diets with a low AP intake ratio. Dietary intakes of total and particular types of protein were calculated from six 24-h dietary recalls. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire on demographic, lifestyle, health, diet intake, and physical activity characteristics. Anthropometric variables including weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated by using fasting serum glucose and insulin. Multiple linear regression models were used to test the relations between total and specific protein intakes with insulin resistance. Results: The ranges of dietary intakes of animal and plant protein and the AP intake ratio were 0.4-87.4 and 14.0-79.2 g/d and 0.02-4.43, respectively. Dietary intakes per 10-g/d increments of total protein (β: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.21) and animal protein (β: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.20) and the AP intake ratio (β: 1.82; 95% CI: 0.80, 2.84) were positively related to HOMA-IR. Plant protein was not significantly related to insulin resistance. Conclusion: Total and animal protein intakes and the AP intake ratio were positively associated with HOMA-IR in adults with relatively a low intake of animal protein and a high consumption of plant protein.

The Walnuts and Healthy Aging Study (WAHA): Protocol for a Nutritional Intervention Trial with Walnuts on Brain Aging

Introduction: An unwanted consequence of population aging is the growing number of elderly at risk of neurodegenerative disorders, including dementia and macular degeneration. As nutritional and behavioral changes can delay disease progression, we designed the Walnuts and Healthy Aging (WAHA) study, a two-center, randomized, 2-year clinical trial conducted in free-living, cognitively healthy elderly men and women. Our interest in exploring the role of walnuts in maintaining cognitive and retinal health is based on extensive evidence supporting their cardio-protective and vascular health effects, which are linked to bioactive components, such as n-3 fatty acids and polyphenols. Methods: The primary aim of WAHA is to examine the effects of ingesting walnuts daily for 2 years on cognitive function and retinal health, assessed with a battery of neuropsychological tests and optical coherence tomography, respectively. All participants followed their habitual diet, adding walnuts at 15% of energy (≈30-60 g/day) (walnut group) or abstaining from walnuts (control group). Secondary outcomes include changes in adiposity, blood pressure, and serum and urinary biomarkers in all participants and brain magnetic resonance imaging in a subset. Results: From May 2012 to May 2014, 708 participants (mean age 69 years, 68% women) were randomized. The study ended in May 2016 with a 90% retention rate. Discussion: The results of WAHA might provide high-level evidence of the benefit of regular walnut consumption in delaying the onset of age-related cognitive impairment and retinal pathology. The findings should translate into public health policy and sound recommendations to the general population (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01634841).

Conventional cytology, visual tests and evaluation of P16(INK4A) as a biomarker in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

OBJECTIVES

(1) To detect cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) using Papanicolaou test (PAP test), visual tests (visual inspection after the application of acetic acid [VIA], visual inspection after the application of Lugol's iodine [VILI]), colposcopy, and biopsy. (2) To study the biomarker p16(INK4A) expression by immunostaining.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experimental study was conducted from November 2009 to April 2011. 1500 women were screened for cancer cervix using conventional PAP test, VIA, and VILI. Sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values of these tests were calculated individually, sequentially, and in parallel. Women having positive results underwent colposcopy and biopsy if required. p16(INK4A) expression in biopsy samples was studied using immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

All test positive cases (n = 235) underwent colposcopy. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of PAP with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) as cut-off was 40%, 99.25%, 35.25%, and 99.39%; VIA was 60%, 93.06%, 8.03%, and 99.56% and VILI was 80%, 86.06%, 5.4%, and 99.76%, respectively. When PAP, VIA, and VILI were used in parallel sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV improved to 100%, 85.18%, 6.38%, and 100%, respectively. Colposcopic abnormalities were detected in 83 and biopsy proven CIN in 15. p(16INK4A) expression was seen in eight of 15 CIN cases.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) PAP test and visual techniques are complementary. (2) p(16INK4A) expression was seen in majority of CIN 2 lesions suggesting a higher grade lesion.

Adipose tissue α-linolenic acid is inversely associated with insulin resistance in adults

BACKGROUND

There is emerging evidence of the beneficial effects of n-3 (ω-3) fatty acids (FAs) on cardiometabolic risk factors. Nevertheless, not much is known about the association between adipose tissue α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and insulin resistance.

OBJECTIVE

We determined the association between adipose tissue n-3 FAs (total n-3 FAs, ALA, and EPA plus DHA) and insulin resistance in healthy adults.

DESIGN

In this cross-sectional study, multivariable analyses were used to assess the association between adipose tissue FAs (ALA, EPA plus DHA, and total n-3 FAs) and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in a subset of adult participants (n= 716; mean age: 58 y) from the Adventist Health Study-2 (AHS-2) cohort.

RESULTS

Compared with the lowest tertile, the third tertile (β = -0.13; 95% CI: -0.24, -0.01) of adipose tissue ALA was inversely associated with the HOMA-IR. When stratified by waist circumference, ALA continued to be inversely associated [third tertile: β = -0.17 (95% CI: -0.31, -0.02)] with the HOMA-IR in subjects with a waist circumference ≤88 cm in women or ≤102 cm in men but not in those with a larger waist circumference. No significant association was noted between adipose tissue EPA plus DHA and HOMA-IR.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher adipose tissue ALA was inversely associated with insulin resistance in this cohort of healthy adult men and women. This finding appears to be more pronounced in individuals with a normal waist circumference.

Genome-Wide Association Mapping of Yield and Grain Quality Traits in Winter Wheat Genotypes

The main goal of this study was to investigate the genetic basis of yield and grain quality traits in winter wheat genotypes using association mapping approach, and identify linked molecular markers for marker assisted selection. A total of 120 elite facultative/winter wheat genotypes were evaluated for yield, quality and other agronomic traits under rain-fed and irrigated conditions for two years (2011–2012) at the Tel Hadya station of ICARDA, Syria. The same genotypes were genotyped using 3,051 Diversity Array Technologies (DArT) markers, of which 1,586 were of known chromosome positions. The grain yield performance of the genotypes was highly significant both in rain-fed and irrigated sites. Average yield of the genotypes ranged from 2295 to 4038 kg/ha and 4268 to 7102 kg/ha under rain-fed and irrigated conditions, respectively. Protein content and alveograph strength (W) ranged from 13.6–16.1% and 217.6–375 Jx10-4, respectively. DArT markers wPt731910 (3B), wPt4680 (4A), wPt3509 (5A), wPt8183 (6B), and wPt0298 (2D) were significantly associated with yield under rain-fed conditions. Under irrigated condition, tPt4125 on chromosome 2B was significantly associated with yield explaining about 13% of the variation. Markers wPt2607 and wPt1482 on 5B were highly associated with protein content and alveograph strength explaining 16 and 14% of the variations, respectively. The elite genotypes have been distributed to many countries using ICARDA’s International system for potential direct release and/or use as parents after local adaptation trials by the NARSs of respective countries. The QTLs identified in this study are recommended to be used for marker assisted selection after through validation using bi-parental populations.

Changes in HIV and syphilis prevalence among female sex workers from three serial cross-sectional surveys in Karnataka state, South India

OBJECTIVES

This paper examined trends over time in condom use, and the prevalences of HIV and syphilis, among female sex workers (FSWs) in South India.

DESIGN

Data from three rounds of cross-sectional surveys were analysed, with HIV and high-titre syphilis prevalence as outcome variables. Multivariable analysis was applied to examine changes in prevalence over time.

SETTING

Five districts in Karnataka state, India.

PARTICIPANTS

7015 FSWs were interviewed over three rounds of surveys (round 1=2277; round 2=2387 and round 3=2351). Women who reported selling sex in exchange for money or gifts in the past month, and aged between 18 and 49 years, were included.

INTERVENTIONS

The surveys were conducted to monitor a targeted HIV prevention programme during 2004-2012. The main interventions included peer-led community outreach, services for the treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and empowering FSWs through community mobilisation.

RESULTS

HIV prevalence declined significantly from rounds 1 to 3, from 19.6% to 10.8% (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.48, p<0.001); high-titre syphilis prevalence declined from 5.9% to 2.4% (AOR=0.50, p<0.001). Reductions were observed in most substrata of FSWs, although reductions among new sex workers, and those soliciting clients using mobile phones or from home, were not statistically significant. Condom use 'always' with occasional clients increased from 73% to 91% (AOR=1.9, p<0.001), with repeat clients from 52% to 86% (AOR=5.0, p<0.001) and with regular partners from 12% to 30% (AOR=4.2, p<0.001). Increased condom use was associated with exposure to the programme. However, condom use with regular partners remained low.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalences of HIV infection and high-titre syphilis among FSWs have steadily declined with increased condom use. Further reductions in prevalence will require intensification of prevention efforts for new FSWs and those soliciting clients using mobile phones or from home, as well as increasing condom use in the context of regular partnerships.