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Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) represents a huge medical need as it accounts for up to 30% of all dementia cases, and there is no cure available. The underyling spectrum of pathology is complex and creates a challenge for targeted molecular therapies. We here tested the hypothesis that leukotrienes are involved in the pathology of DLB and that blocking leukotrienes through Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist and approved anti-asthmatic drug, might alleviate pathology and restore cognitive functions. Expression of 5-lipoxygenase, the rate-limiting enzyme for leukotriene production, was indeed elevated in brains with DLB. Treatment of cognitively deficient human alpha-synuclein overexpressing transgenic mice with Montelukast restored memory. Montelukast treatment resulted in modulation of beclin-1 expression, a marker for autophagy, and in a reduction in the human alpha-synulcein load in the transgenic mice. Reducing the protein aggregation load in neurodegenerative diseases might be a novel model of action of Montelukast. Moreover, this work presents leukotriene signaling as a potential drug target for DLB and shows that Montelukast might be a promising drug candidate for future DLB therapy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin K (VK) exists in the form of phylloquinone (PK) and menaquinones (MKs). Roles of VK on cognitive health in the elderly are emerging, but there is limited evidence on VK uptake and metabolism in human brain.Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to characterize VK distribution in brains of an elderly population with varied cognitive function. In addition, associations among circulating (a biomarker of VK intake) and cerebral VK concentrations and cognition were investigated.Methods: Serum or plasma (n = 27) and brain samples from the frontal cortex (FC; n = 46) and the temporal cortex (TC; n = 33) were acquired from 48 decedents (aged 98-107 y; 25 demented and 23 nondemented) enrolled in the Georgia Centenarian Study. Both circulating and brain VK concentrations were measured using HPLC with fluorescence detection. Cognitive assessment was performed within 1 y prior to mortality. Partial correlations between serum/plasma or cerebral VK concentrations and cognitive function were performed, adjusting for covariates and separating by dementia and antithrombotic use.Results: MK-4 was the predominant vitamer in both FC (mean ± SD = 4.92 ± 2.31 pmol/g, ≥89.15% ± 5.09% of total VK) and TC (4.60 ± 2.11 pmol/g, ≥89.71% ± 4.43% of total VK) regardless of cognitive status. Antithrombotic users had 34.0% and 53.9% lower MK-4 concentrations in FC (P < 0.05) and TC (P < 0.001), respectively. Circulating PK was not correlated with cerebral MK-4 or total VK concentrations. Circulating PK concentrations were significantly associated with a wide range of cognitive measures in nondemented centenarians (P < 0.05). In contrast, cerebral MK-4 concentrations were not associated with cognitive performance, either before or after exclusion of antithrombotic users.Conclusions: Circulating VK concentrations are not related to cerebral MK-4 concentrations in centenarians. Cerebral MK-4 concentrations are tightly regulated over a range of VK intakes and cognitive function. Circulating PK may reflect intake of VK-rich foods containing other dietary components beneficial to cognitive health. Further investigation of VK uptake and metabolism in the brain is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the increasing number and diversity of older adults and the transformation of health care services in the United States, it is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior that all older adults should have access to evidence-based food and nutrition programs that ensure the availability of safe and adequate food to promote optimal nutrition, health, functionality, and quality of life. Registered dietitian nutritionists and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered, in partnership with other practitioners and nutrition educators, should be actively involved in programs that provide coordinated services between the community and health care systems that include regular monitoring and evaluation of programming outcomes. The rapidly growing older population, increased demand for integrated continuous support systems, and rising cost of health care underscore the need for these programs. Programs must include food assistance and meal programs, nutritional screening and assessment, nutrition education, medical nutrition therapy, monitoring, evaluation, and documentation of evidence-based outcomes. Coordination with long-term care services and support systems is necessary to allow older adults to remain in their homes; improve or maintain their health and manage chronic disease; better navigate transitions of care; and reduce avoidable hospital, acute, or long-term care facility admissions. Funding of these programs requires evidence of their effectiveness, especially regarding health, functionality, and health care–related outcomes of interest to individuals, caregivers, payers, and policy makers. Targeting of food and nutrition programs involves addressing unmet needs for services, particularly among those at high risk for poor nutrition. Registered dietitian nutritionists and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered must increase programmatic efforts to measure outcomes to evaluate community-based food and nutrition services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Plesiomonas shigelloides , is an emerging and significant enteric pathogen in water having implication in both localised and gastrointestinal infections with characteristic of displaying high resistance against commonly used antibiotics. This study evaluated the prevalence of Plesiomonas shigelloides and their antibiogram fingerprints in water sample collected from four rivers in South-western Nigeria. In all, 148 presumptive Plesiomonas shigelloides isolates was recovered from the rivers out of which 66 (44.6%) were confirmed positive for the organism using polymerase chain reaction techniques. Confirmed isolates were evaluated for their antibiogram profiles against a panel of 20 antimicrobials using the disc diffusion method and further screened for relevant antibiotic resistance genes. Resistance of the isolates against the antimicrobials followed the order: sulphamethoxazole (100%), erythromycin (93%), ampicillin (90%), cephalotin (82%), streptomycin (64%), and chloramphenicol (58%), amoxicillin (53%), cefotaxime (50%), tetracycline (49%), neomycin (38%) and trimethoprim + sulphamethoxazole (38%). Conversely, all the isolates were susceptible against netilmicin, and susceptibility against the other antibiotics follows the order: meropenem (94%), gentamicin (88%), imipenem (79%), amikacin (70%), ciprofloxacin (70%), norfloxacin (59%), trimethoprim (56%) and ceftazidine (56%). The multiple antibiotic resistance indices of the organism were higher than the accepted threshold of 0.2. The incidence of 11 antimicrobial resistance determinants were obtained as follows: [sulphonamides; (sul I (18%), sul II (20%), dfr 1 (70%), dfr (18) (5%)), [beta-lactams; (amp C 37%)], [tetracyclines; (tet A (78%), tetE (57%)], [phenicols; (cat II (16%), cml A1 (11%)] and [aminoglycosides; (aphA2 (36%) and str A (67%)]. Pearson chi-square exact test revealed positive associations among tet A, tet E, sul lI and cat II and tet A genes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the incidence and antibiogram fingerprint of P. shigelloides in these freshwater resources and we conclude that these rivers are important reservoirs of multiple antimicrobial resistant biotypes of this organism, and consequently a threat to public health. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Plesiomonas shigelliodes were isolated from freshwater resources in Southwest Nigeria. • Antimicrobial susceptibility fingerprints of isolates were reported. • Isolates were resistance against 60% of test antibiotics. • Sulphonamides, tetracyclines and aminoglycosides resistance fingerprint were predominant. • Positive association existed among tet A, tet E, sul lI and cat II and tet A genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staff members' engagement with patients is a critical element of inpatient psychiatric care, essential to safety, the hospitalization experience and the development of a culture of care. Currently broad concerns exist around the amount of time inpatient psychiatric nurses expend in patient engagement and the quality of these interactions. In this paper we present a model of engagement that clarifies necessary skills to support the engagement process. The model is based on Peplau's theory of interpersonal relations, patients' ideas on healing elements of psychiatric hospitalization and research on inpatient therapeutic relationships. We are currently using this model for a web-based teaching/learning course to cultivate interpersonal engagement, and to explicate how through operationalizing their inpatient role, nurses support patients in the development of their mental health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: Lafora disease is a rare yet invariably fatal form of progressive neurodegenerative epilepsy resulting from mutations in the phosphatase laforin. Several therapeutic options for Lafora disease patients are currently being explored, and these therapies would benefit from a biochemical means of assessing functional laforin activity following treatment. To date, only clinical outcomes such as decreases in seizure frequency and severity have been used to indicate success of epilepsy treatment. However, these qualitative measures exhibit variability and must be assessed over long periods of time. In this work, we detail a simple and sensitive bioassay that can be used for the detection of functional endogenous laforin from human and mouse tissue. Design and methods: We generated antibodies capable of detecting and immunoprecipitating endogenous laforin. Following laforin immunoprecipitation, laforin activity was assessed via phosphatase assays using para-nitrophenylphosphate (pNPP) and a malachite green-based assay specific for glucan phosphatase activity. Results: We found that antibody binding to laforin does not impede laforin activity. Furthermore, the malachite green-based glucan phosphatase assay used in conjunction with a rabbit polyclonal laforin antibody was capable of detecting endogenous laforin activity from human and mouse tissues. Importantly, this assay discriminated between laforin activity and other phosphatases. Conclusions: The bioassay that we have developed utilizing laforin antibodies and an assay specific for glucan phosphatase activity could prove valuable in the rapid detection of functional laforin in patients to which novel Lafora disease therapies have been administered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The origin of embryos including those created through assisted reproductive technologies might have profound effects on placental and fetal development, possibly leading to compromised pregnancies associated with poor placental development. To determine the effects of embryo origin on fetal size, and maternal and fetal placental cellular proliferation and global methylation, pregnancies were achieved through natural mating (NAT), or transfer of embryos generated through in vivo (NAT-ET), IVF, or in vitro activation (IVA). On Day 22 of pregnancy, fetuses were measured and placental tissues were collected to immunologically detect Ki67 (a marker of proliferating cells) and 5-methyl cytosine followed by image analysis, and determine mRNA expression for three DNA methyltransferases. Fetal length and labeling index (proportion of proliferating cells) in maternal caruncles (maternal placenta) and fetal membranes (fetal placenta) were less (P < 0.001) in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA than in NAT. In fetal membranes, expression of 5-methyl cytosine was greater (P < 0.02) in IVF and IVA than in NAT. In maternal caruncles, mRNA expression for DNMT1 was greater (P < 0.01) in IVA compared with the other groups, but DNMT3A expression was less (P < 0.04) in NAT-ET and IVA than in NAT. In fetal membranes, expression of mRNA for DNMT3A was greater (P < 0.01) in IVA compared with the other groups, and was similar in NAT, NAT-ET, and IVF groups. Thus, embryo origin might have specific effects on growth and function of ovine uteroplacental and fetal tissues through regulation of tissue growth, DNA methylation, and likely other mechanisms. These data provide a foundation for determining expression of specific factors regulating placental and fetal tissue growth and function in normal and compromised pregnancies, including those achieved with assisted reproductive technologies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The nursing shortage remains an acute problem at the national level and significantly endangers the provision of safe and effective health care. One of the most significant problems fueling the nursing shortage in the United States is the lack of faculty to educate the number of qualified individuals applying to nursing programs. A major factor driving the shortage of faculty emanates from the current trend in basic nursing education that is increasing the proportion of nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) as their terminal professional education. Community colleges, that offer the associate degree, play a crucial role in providing access to nursing education. However, they now account for more than 2/3 of all new nursing graduates in the United States. With over 2/3 of our new nurses completing only associate degree programs, the faculty pipeline continues to decrease. This also means fewer bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and higher-degree-prepared nurses available for advanced clinical practice, management roles, and public health services. It is therefore critical to identify and implement new pathways to increase the number of ADN graduates who complete baccalaureate education and, thereby, increase the percentage of BSN-prepared nurses. This article describes the development and implementation of a model in North Carolina to regionally increase the number of baccalaureate-prepared nurses through the development of partnerships between community colleges and universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity is a persistent, growing, and clinically relevant problem in older adults; however, its effect on healthcare expenditures is not known. This study examined the relationship of food insecurity with Medicare and out-of-pocket expenditures in older Georgians enrolled in Medicare and meal services using 2 complementary datasets: Georgia Advanced Performance Outcomes Measures Project 6 (GA Advanced POMP6) and Medicare claims data in 2008 (n = 903, mean age 76.9 ± 7.8 y, 31.0% male, 64.2% white). Due to the mixed distribution of healthcare expenditure data (e.g., high nonusers, right-skewed distribution for users), 2-part models were used. Approximately one-half of the sample was food insecure (50.4%) and was more likely to report poorer health status and to have chronic diseases than food-insecure individuals. Food-insecure older adults were less likely to have any Medicare expenditure than food-secure older adults. Among those who had positive Medicare expenditure, however, food-insecure and food-secure individuals had similar Medicare expenditures. Food-insecure and food-secure older individuals were equally likely to incur out-of-pocket expenditure. However, among those who had positive out-of-pocket expenditure, food-insecure older individuals had lower out-of-pocket expenditures than their counterparts. Adjusted mean Medicare and out-of-pocket expenditures of food-insecure individuals were $1875 and $310 less than food-secure individuals in 2008, respectively. These findings based on the innovative methodological approaches and datasets suggest complex relationships between food insecurity and healthcare expenditures in older adults, reflecting unique healthcare access and usage patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folic acid can prevent neural tube defects INTD). Hispanic women have a higher prevalence of NTD than non-Hispanic white (NHW) women and consume less folic acid. Among Hispanics, acculturation has been associated with lower intakes of natural folate. It is unknown if this same relationship is seen for fortified foods. This article describes the associations of acculturation factors with usual folate intakes from foods and supplements and compares the proportion that meets recommended intakes of folic acid of US Mexican American (MA> women with those of NHW women. For US NHW and MA women aged 15-44 y In = 3167), usual folate intakes (i.e., natural food folate, folic acid from food, total folic acid (fortified foods plus supplements], and total folatel were estimated using measurement error models from NHANES 2001-2008. Compared with NHW women, MA women did not differ in their intake of natural food folate or folic acid from food. Similarly, compared with NHW women (332 ± 17.3 μg/d), the mean total usual folic acid intakes were lower among MA women who reported speaking Spanish (224 ± 24.9 μg/dl but not for MA women who reported speaking English (283 ± 36.2 μg/d). MA women were more likely than NHW women to consume a total folic acid intake <400 μg/d. MA women with lower acculturation factors were the most likely to have an intake <400 /Lg/d compared to NHW women. Public health efforts should focus on increasing total folic acid intake among MA women, emphasizing those with lower acculturation factors (e.g., MA women who report speaking Spanish). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security is a newly recommended outcome measure for the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program (OAANP); however, it is unknown how best to evaluate the need for this program and assess its impact on a large scale. Therefore, we measured food security in all new OMNP participants and waitlisted applicants in Georgia between July and early November, 2008 (n = 4731) with the self-administered mail survey method used in the ongoing Georgia Performance Outcomes Measures project. We used a modified 6-item U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) with a 30-d reference period and 2 reminder postcards. Approximately 33% of those identified completed the survey (n = 1594, mean age 74.6 ± 9.5 y, 68.6% female, 30.6% black). Most of the respondents (91%) completed all 6 food security questions, whereas 26 did not respond to any question. Infit and outfit statistics for each of the 6 questions were within an acceptable range. Psychometric properties observed in our food security data were generally similar to those in the nationally representative survey conducted by the Census Bureau and suggest that our food security statistics may be meaningfully compared with national food security statistics published by the USDA. Our findings suggest that food security can be reasonably measured by a short form of HFSSM in older adults requesting OAANP. Such methodology also can be used to estimate the extent of food insecurity and help guide program and policy decisions to meet the nutrition assistance needs of vulnerable older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) can be divided into nonarteritic (NAION) and arteritic (AAION) forms. NAION makes up ∼85% of all cases of AION, and until recently was poorly understood. There is no treatment for NAION, and its initiating causes are poorly understood, in part because NAION is not lethal, making it difficult to obtain fresh, newly affected tissue for study. In-vivo electrophysiology and post-mortem studies reveal specific responses that are associated with NAION. New models of NAION have been developed which enable insights into the pathophysiological events surrounding this disease. These models include both rodent and primate species, and the power of a ‘vertically integrated’ multi-species approach can help in understanding the common cellular mechanisms and physiological responses to clinical NAION, and to identify potential approaches to treatment. The models utilize laser light to activate intravascular photoactive dye to induce capillary vascular thrombosis, while sparing the larger vessels. The observable optic nerve changes associated with rodent models of AION (rAION) and primate NAION (pNAION) are indistinguishable from that seen in clinical disease, including sectoral axonal involvement, and in-vivo electrophysiological data from these models are consistent with clinical data. Early post-infarct events reveal an unexpected inflammatory response, and changes in intraretinal gene expression for both stress response, while sparing outer retinal function, which occurs in AAION models. Histologically, the NAION models reveal an isolated loss of retinal ganglion cells by apoptosis. There are changes detectable by immunohistochemistry suggesting that other retinal cells mount a brisk response to retinal ganglion cell distress without themselves dying. The optic nerve ultimately shows axonal loss and scarring. Inflammation is a prominent early histological feature. This suggests that clinically, specific modulation of inflammation may be a useful approach to NAION treatment early in the course of the disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nutritional status plays a critical role in the prevention and management of many chronic health conditions that are common in the elderly and are likely to become more prevalent as the population ages. This paper highlights several aspects of nutrition that require additional basic science and clinical application research to improve the health and well-being of older adults. Topics addressed are selected demographic and health indices, the uncertain benefits of energy restriction in aged humans compared with other species, the impact of food insecurity on health, the relationship between dietary protein and sarcopenia, the prevention and management of obesity while maintaining muscle mass and functional status, and controversy regarding high intakes of folic acid. Research needs regarding the safety, efficacy, and application of clinical interventions related to these topics also are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-M antibodies are usually inactive at physiologic temperatures (37 °C). Rarely, these antibodies have been reported to react at physiologic temperatures, resulting in clinically significant hemolytic transfusion reactions or hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. We describe a case of an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction due to an anti-M alloantibody reacting at physiologic temperatures in a critically ill patient. Proper identification and management of anti-M antibody-mediated acute hemolysis rapidly improved and stabilized her hemoglobin. Differentiation between anti-M antibody-mediated acute hemolysis and its differential diagnoses is of critical importance to guide therapeutic decisions in these rare clinical scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human retinol dehydrogenase 10 (RDH10) was implicated in the oxidation of all-trans-retinol for biosynthesis of all-transretinoic acid, however, initial assays suggested that RDH10 prefers NADP+ as a cofactor, undermining its role as an oxidative enzyme. Here, we present evidence that RDH10 is, in fact, a strictly NAD+-dependent enzyme with multisubstrate specificity that recognizes cis-retinols as well as all-trans-retinol as substrates. RDH10 has a relatively high apparent Km value for NAD+ (∼ 100 μM) but the lowest apparent Km value for all- trans-retinol ∼-0.035 μM) among all NAD+-dependent retinoid oxidoreductases. Due to its high affinity for all-trans-retinol, RDH10 exhibits a greater rate of retinol oxidation in the presence of cellular retinol-binding protein type I (CRBPI) than human microsomal RoDH4, but like RoDH4, RDH10 does not recognize retinol bound to CRBPI as a substrate. Consistent with its preference for NAD+, RDH10 functions exclusively in the oxidative direction in the cells, increasing the levels of retinaldehyde and retinoic acid. Targeted small interfering RNA- mediated silencing of endogenous RDH10 or RoDH4 expression in human cells results in a significant decrease in retinoic acid production from retinol, identifying both human enzymes as physiologically relevant retinol dehydrogenases. The dual cis/trans substrate specificity suggests a dual physiological role for RDH10: in the biosynthesis of 11-cis-retinaldehyde for vision as well as the biosynthesis of all-trans-retinoic acid for differentiation and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Despite the availability of effective treatments, many patients with diabetes have suboptimal glycemic control. Objective: This study was designed to determine whether the Advanced Insulin Management (AIM) program could help patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) reduce their A1C levels to ≤7.5% without weight gain, increased incidence of hypoglycemia, or increased diabetes-related distress. Methods: The AIM program, developed to intensify glycemic control in patients with type 1 DM, consisted of a screening visit and 3 to 6 interactive group sessions, depending on whether the patient elects multiple daily injections (MDIs) or an insulin pump. Patients who wanted to learn additional diabetes management skills were referred by their endocrinologist, and those with competent carbohydrate-counting skills and record-keeping practices were eligible to enroll. A nurse, dietitian, psychologist, and physician provided group instruction and supported individual goal setting. The program included depression screening, regimen adjustments, and problem-solving activities. Outcome measures, including blood glucose, A1C, weight, and diabetes-related distress, were tracked for 12 months. Results: The study included 113 adult patients with type 1 DM (59% female; mean age, 39 years). Twenty patients already had insulin pumps, 46 patients initiated pump therapy during the study, and 47 patients elected MDIs. Mean A1C declined by 0.5% (to 7.3%) after 12 months, without weight gain or increased hypoglycemia. A significant decrease in diabetes-related distress was observed. Conclusion: The AIM program was associated with important improvements in glycemic control in patients with type 1 DM, without weight gain or increased hypoglycemic episodes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM)-dependent methylation reactions produce S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), the precursor of homocysteine, which has been associated with adverse events when it is elevated. Objective: We studied a cohort of elderly with a high prevalence of cobalamin deficiency to determine whether SAH, SAM, or their ratio was abnormal; whether they correlated with other markers of vitamin deficiency; and whether they changed with cobalamin therapy. Design: A convenience sample of elderly attending nutrition centers was enrolled for baseline demographic, biochemical, and nutritional assessments. Methylmalonic acid (MMA), total homocysteine, and other metabolites were measured by using gas chromatography- mass spectrometry. Serum SAM and SAH were measured by using stable-isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Subjects found to have elevated serum MMA were treated with oral cyanocobalamin tablets (1000μg/d) for 3 mo. Subjects with normal MMA were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dosage groups: 0, 25, or 100 μg cyanocobalamin/d. Results: The 149 elderly subjects had a mean age of 76.3 y; 81% were female, and 30% were African American. Serum MMA concentrations were elevated in 30% and SAH concentrations were elevated in 64% of the cohort. Those with elevated MMA concentrations had higher SAH and SAM concentrations. High-dose oral cobalamin lowered SAH, MMA, and total homocysteine concentrations significantly, although subjects with creatinine concentrations >109 umol/L had higher posttreatment SAH than did those with lower creatinine. Conclusions: Elevated serum SAH concentrations are common in elderly and are strongly influenced by both renal status and cobalamin deficiency. These elevated concentrations can be lowered with high-dose oral cobalamin therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complaint of “I’m dizzy,” is a familiar one heard from those over age 60 by nurses in any health care setting. This complaint requires assessing subjective reports and determining potential causes to assist in obtaining appropriate interventions. Specialized testing may be required, as well as review of the person’s activity, medications, diagnoses, and potential environmental and emotional situation. The end goal in nursing care is to prevent injury and promote physical and psychosocial well-being. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Evidence suggests that adults and adolescents throughout the United States are at risk of poor vitamin D status. However, vitamin D concentrations in young American children have not been assessed. Objective: The relations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and bone were examined in prepubertal girls. Design: In the present cross-sectional study, serum 25(OH)D concentration was assessed in 168 prepubertal girls aged 4 - 8 y living in the southeastern United States with the use of radioimmunoassay. Bone area, bone mineral content, and areal bone mineral density were measured from total body, lumbar spine, proximal femur, and forearm with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Data were analyzed with analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, stepwise multiple regression, and partial correlations. Results: The mean (±SD) serum 25(OH)D was 93.8 ±28.1 nmol/L (range: 31.1-181.4 nmol/L). In a multiple regression analysis, race and season were the strongest predictors of vitamin D status. The black girls had lower mean 25(OH)D values than did the white girls (P < 0.01), and 25(OH)D values were significantly different in the total sample between the seasons (P < 0.001), ranging from 74.4 nmol/L during the winter months to 107 nmol/L during the summer. After adjustment for season, age, race, and body mass index, 25(OH)D values were negatively correlated with forearm bone mineral content (r = - 0.18; P = 0.02). Conclusions: Unlike prior reports of adults and adolescents living in the southeastern United States, vitamin D status was adequate in the children of the present study. 25(OH)D concentrations were not positively associated with higher bone mineral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of the folate food fortification program on the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in the older population with coexisting vitamin B-12 deficiency is not known. Objective: The objective was to determine the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia and vitamin B-12 deficiency in elderly who were using Title IIIc nutrition services, after folate food fortification in the United States. Design: Demographic, nutritional, cognitive, routine diagnostic, and serum methylmalonic acid (MMA) and total homocysteine (tHcy) tests were performed in a convenience sample of 103 elderly enrolled in nutrition service programs in rural northeast Georgia. A subgroup (n = 27) was treated with vitamin B-12, 2.5 mg, and a multivitamin with 400 μg folic acid, 2 mg vitamin B-6, and 27 mg ferrous fumarate. Results: The total cohort included 103 participants (x-± SD age: 76.4 ± 8.1; 80% female; 68% white, 32% African American). Vitamin B-12 deficiency (serum vitamin B-12 < 258 pmol/L and MMA > 271 nmol/L) was present in 23%. Mean serum folate was high, 39.3 nmol/L, and no subject had serum folate < 6.8 nmol/L. Mean tHcy was 17.6 ± 7.2 μmol/L in vitamin B-12-deficient subjects and 10.8 ± 3.6 μmol/L in those who were nondeficient. Determinants of high tHcy were vitamin B-12 deficiency, high serum creatinine, and low red blood cell folate. Those with vitamin B-12 deficiency were more likely to have poor cognition (58% compared with 20%, P < 0.001) and anemia (38% compared with 18%, P = 0.042). High-dose oral B-12 therapy lowered mean MMA and tHcy by 49% and 32%, respectively. Conclusion: Vitamin B-12 deficiency was prevalent and was associated with poor cognition, anemia, and hyperhomocysteinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study explored changes in perceived burden among Taiwanese family caregivers (n=77) from nursing home placement of an elder to four months postadmission. Higher burden at placement was related to the level of dependence of the care recipients (p=0.004), or caregiver''s poor health (p<0.01). After nursing home placement for four months, global burden decreased (p<0.01) contributed primarily by lessened burden in three sub-scales: lack of family support, impact of schedule and impact of health. Burden scores on caregiver esteem and impact of finances were not decreased after placement. Duration of caregiving was the only demographic factor predicting change in global burden (p<0.001). Changes in impact on finances, and impact on health were, respectively, predicted by the perceived health (p=0.005), and religious preference (p=0.01). These results provide valuable information to healthcare providers for an understanding of the changes of caregiving burden after nursing home placement and the correlates of these changes, which may help devise an appropriate policy for alleviating the caregiver''s burden. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Depression is a common and distressing problem in the context of dementia, and is significantly more common in Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) than in Alzheimer’s disease. The neurochemical basis for depression in DLB has not been investigated. Aim: To investigate the association between depression and 5HT transporter re-uptake binding in DLB patients. Method: A representative cohort of dementia patients received annual assessments, which included a standardised evaluation of depression until death. At post-mortem, (3H) cyanoimipramine autoradiography was used to quantify 5HT transporter re-uptake sites in the hippocampus and adjacent temporal cortex (Brodmann Area-BA 36, and 20); and parietal neocortex (BA 7a). Results: Twenty-one cases were evaluated neurochemically, of whom seven had experienced a major depressive disorder. Major depression was associated with a significant preservation of 5HT transporter re-uptake sites in the parietal neocortex compared with non-affected cases (BA 7a area 1 t=3.3, P=0.004; BA 7a area 3 t=3.8, P=0.001). Conclusion: This preliminary report is important in challenging some of the assumptions about cortical monoamine functioning in depressed dementia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Tests the hypothesis that age-related hearing loss may be linked with poor vitamin B-12 and folate status. Audiometric assessment conducted in 55 healthy women aged 60-71 years; Pure-tone air conduction thresholds; Hearing impairment; Presbycusis; Presbyacusis; Atrophic gastritis; Nutrition and auditory function.

Assesses the dairy product intake of the elderly in the United States. Dairy product consumption patterns of centenarians; Factors influencing dairy product intake; Data on food and nutritional intakes from the US National Cancer Institute; Influence of dietary attitudes on food selection.

High intakes of iron, zinc, or manganese can interfere with copper absorption. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine whether the amounts and chemical forms of iron, zinc, manganese, and copper added to food products and nutritional supplements might pose a threat to copper status. More than 25% of the vitamin and mineral supplements examined contained no copper, 40% contained the poorly absorbed cupric oxide, and < 30% contained a highly bioavailable form of copper such as cupric sulfate or cupric chloride. Nearly 40% of the prenatal supplements examined contained both iron and zinc without a nutritionally significant amount of copper. More than 80% of the infant formulas examined had ratios of iron to copper exceeding 20:1, which is higher than the recommended ratios of 10–17:1. None of the 40 ready-to-eat breakfast cereals examined were fortified with copper or manganese although 50% of these cereals contained ≥25% of the reference daily intake for both iron and zinc. Copper availability could be improved by reformulation of several food products and supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of elevated dietary ascorbic acid and iron on copper utilization were examined. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed one of two levels of Cu (deficient, 0.42 µzg Cu/g, or adequate, 5.74 µg Cu/g), Fe (moderate, 38 µg Fe/g or high, 191 µg Fe/g), and ascorbic acid (low, 0% or high, 1% of the diet) for 20 d. High Fe decreased (p < 0.05) Cu absorption only in Cu-deficient rats. High ascorbic acid significantly decreased tissue Cu levels in Cuadequate rats. High Fe with ascorbic acid caused severe anemia in Cu-deficient rats and decreased plasma ceruloplasmin by 44% in Cu-adequate rats. Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase activity in erythrocytes was decreased (p < 0.05) by 14% during Cu deficiency but was not affected by Fe or ascorbic acid. These results may be important to individuals with high intakes of Fe and ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Camelina feedstock possesses potential attributes as a biofuel feedstock. • Camelina-derived biodiesel is more favorable financially compared to bio-jet. • Agricultural by-products of the feedstock are useful in reducing the biofuel cost. • Biofuel feedstock yield is key contributor in bio-jet fuel production. • Local production costs play a key role in the overall economics of the bio-jet prices. This study explores the techno-economic analysis of producing Camelina-derived Hydroprocessed Renewable Jet (HRJ) fuel in Montana using the hydro-deoxygenation (HDO) pathway. The HDO method requires added hydrogen and increases cost. The estimated breakeven price of Camelina-derived HRJ fuel generated from the HDO reaction follows the UOP Honeywell procedure. Oilseed cultivation, lipid extraction, and HRJ fuel production were evaluated to estimate the HRJ fuel breakeven price. In an extraction facility with annual processing capacity of 3000 Mg, the breakeven price of Camelina oil was $0.35 per liter over a 20-year operating period and $0.34 per liter over a 30-year period. For a 20-year operating period, the deterministic breakeven price of HRJ fuel was $0.87 per liter with a commercial hydrogen and $1.01 per liter when the plant generated its own hydrogen supply; a 30-year operating period had $0.02 per liter savings. The sensitivity analysis indicates a breakeven price between $0.87 and $1.44 per liter in a facility with an on-site hydrogen plant, and between $0.75 and $1.26 per liter when purchasing hydrogen. An additional $0.02 per liter of capital investment cost is incurred to produce HRJ fuel instead of renewable diesel. Depending on the fuel product, investors would have a capital cost penalty of $0.13 to $0.15 per liter for producing hydrogen on-site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-synuclein (aSyn) accumulates in intracellular inclusions in synucleinopathies, but the molecular mechanisms leading to disease are unclear. We identify the 10 kDa heat shock protein (HSP10) as a mediator of aSyn-induced mitochondrial impairments in striatal synaptosomes. We find an age-associated increase in the cytosolic levels of HSP10, and a concomitant decrease in the mitochondrial levels, in aSyn transgenic mice. The levels of superoxide dismutase 2, a client of the HSP10/HSP60 folding complex, and synaptosomal spare respiratory capacity are also reduced. Overexpression of HSP10 ameliorates aSyn-associated mitochondrial dysfunction and delays aSyn pathology in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, our data indicate that increased levels of aSyn induce mitochondrial deficits, at least partially, by sequestering HSP10 in the cytosol and preventing it from acting in mitochondria. Importantly, these alterations manifest first at presynaptic terminals. Our study not only provides mechanistic insight into synucleinopathies but opens new avenues for targeting underlying cellular pathologies. • aSyn sequesters HSP10 in the cytosol and prevents it from acting in the mitochondria • Overexpression of HSP10 delays aSyn pathology in vitro and in vivo • HSP10 modulates aSyn pathology in synaptic terminals Szegő et al. identify HSP10 as a modulator of alpha-synuclein-induced mitochondrial impairment in striatal synaptosomes. Age-associated increase in the cytosolic and decrease in mitochondrial levels of HSP10 results in a reduction in the levels of SOD2 and of synaptosomal ATP production on demand. HSP10 overexpression delays alpha-synuclein pathology both in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Congress through the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990 authorized the use of health claims on food labels. These claims describe the relationship between a substance and a disease or health-related condition. In addition, Congress directed the U.S. FDA to apply a significant scientific agreement standard in approving these claims. Since 1990, the FDA has approved several health claims, but has also denied claims that did not meet this standard. The purpose of The Nutrient Disease Relationships: Closing the Scientific Knowledge Gap symposium was to provide researchers with perspectives to keep in mind when designing studies that examine the relationship between a nutrient and a disease or health-related condition, to help close the scientific knowledge gap for nutrient-disease relationships of scientific, consumer, and public health interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]