Search

Objective: Examine relationships between adult obesity, childhood overweight, and food insecurity. Design: Cross-sectional retrospective study. Setting: Community settings in Hartford, Connecticut. Participants: Convenience sample of 200 parents and their 212 children, aged 2-12. Main Outcome Measures: Adult obesity (Body Mass Index [BMI] > 30), childhood overweight (BMI-for-age > 95th percentile), and household food security (U.S. Department of Agriculture module). Analysis: Chi-square tests between weight status and socioeconomic characteristics. Multinomial regression analyses to determine risk factors for adult obesity and childhood overweight. Results: Over half of parents (51%) were obese, and almost one-third of children (31.6%) were overweight. Over half of households were food insecure. Food insecure adults were significantly more likely to be obese as those who were food secure (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.45, p = .02). Being a girl and having an obese parent doubled the likelihood of children being overweight (OR = 2.56, P = .01; OR = 2.32, P = .03). Children with family incomes below 100% of poverty were half as likely to be overweight as those with higher incomes (OR = .47, P = .05). Food insecurity did not increase odds of childhood overweight. Conclusions and implications: Obesity prevention programs and policies need to address food insecurity and gender as key risk factors. Key Words: obesity, overweight, food insecurity, adult, children (J Nutr Educ Behav. 2007;39:31-36)

• Splash White 9 and Splash White 10 found in Pura Raza Espanola horses. • Novel Mutations in PAX3 and MITF associated with depigmentation in horses. • Coat color mutations can influence equine health and sentimental value. Mutations causing depigmentation are relatively common in Equus caballus (horse). Over 40 alleles in multiple genes are associated with increased white spotting (as of February 2023). The splashed white phenotype, a coat spotting pattern described as appearing like the horse has been splashed with white paint, was previously associated with variants in the PAX3 and MITF genes. Both genes encode transcription factors known to control melanocyte migration and pigmentation. We report two novel mutations, a stop-gain mutation in PAX3 (XM_005610643.3:c.927C>T, ECA6:11,196,181, EquCab3.0) and a missense mutation in a binding domain of MITF (NM_001163874.1:c.993A>T, ECA16:21,559,940, EquCab3.0), each with a strong association with increased depigmentation in Pura Raza Española horses (P = 1.144E-11, N = 30, P = 4.441E-16, N = 39 respectively). Using a quantitative method to score depigmentation, the PAX3 and MITF mutations were found to have average white scores of 25.50 and 24.45, respectively, compared to the average white coat spotting score of 1.89 in the control set. The functional impact for each mutation was predicted to be moderate to extreme (I-TASSER, SMART, Variant Effect Predictor, SIFT). We propose to designate the MITF mutant allele as Splashed White 9 and the PAX3 mutant allele as Splashed White 10 per convention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mutations in untranslated regions can affect gene expression. • Mutations in KIT are associated with increased degimentation in many mammals. • A mutation in KIT's 5′ untranslated region is associated with depigmentation in horses. Mutations in KIT , a gene that influences melanoblast migration and pigmentation, often result in mammalian white spotting. As of February 2023, over 30 KIT variants associated with white spotting were documented in Equus caballus (horse). Here we report an association of increased white spotting on the skin and coat with a variant in the 5′UTR of KIT (rs1149701677: g.79,618,649A>C). Horses possessing at least one alternate allele demonstrate phenotypic characteristics similar to other KIT mutations: clear borders around unpigmented regions on the body, face, and limbs. Using a quantitative measure of depigmentation, we observed an average white score of 10.70 among individuals with rs1149701677, while the average score of the control, homozygous reference sample was 2.23 (P = 1.892e-11, n = 109, t -test). The rs1149701677 site has a cross-species conservation score of 3.4, one of the highest scores across the KIT 5′UTR, implying regulatory importance for this site. Ensembl also predicted a "moderately impactful" functional effect for the rs1149701677 variant. We propose that this single nucleotide variant likely alters the regulation of KIT, which in turn may disrupt melanoblast migration causing an increase in white spotting on the coat. Alternatively, the rs1149701677 variant may be in linkage with another nearby variant with an as-yet-undiscovered functional impact. We propose to term this new allele " Holiday White " or W35 based on conventional nomenclature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pedigree versus genomic inbreeding of an influential sire with over 1,678 offspring. • Genetic ancestry resembles autochthonous breeds than a reflection of introgression. • Results demonstrate the potential of genomic ancestral data in solving disparities. • Results support future guidelines for maintaining the breed's genetic diversity. Pedigrees and horse written ancestry contain numerous inconsistencies and divergence between farm histories, owner accounts and registration records. In particular, the origins of the Brazilian Mangalarga, or "Mangalarga Paulista'' horse breed is controversial, and the breed's popular history claims that one of its most famous individuals, Turbante J.O. , may have been sired by an unknown Hanoverian stallion. Turbante J.O. sired over 1678 offspring and is present in about 71% of the male pedigrees. We genotyped Turbante J.O. and 29 registered Mangalarga individuals using a commercially available ancestry service and compared genomic to pedigree-based estimates. DNA was extracted for this sire from frozen semen samples. Other breed-average genomic ancestries for the Arabian, Thoroughbred, Saddlebred, and Hanoverian were utilized for comparison. Pedigree-based inbreeding coefficient (F ped) of Turbante J.O. and the 17 other Mangalargas were analyzed, and while Turbante J.O. 's F ped is estimated to be 18.5%, the genomic-based inbreeding coefficient is 33%. Pedigree-based co-ancestry coefficients estimate that about 3% of his ancestry should reflect Thoroughbred and Arabian heritage, however, the genomic analysis of Turbante J.O. identified 100% Iberian ancestry, and 99% in common with other Mangalarga individuals followed by other autochthonous Brazilian breeds, with no evidence of Hanoverian parentage. We demonstrate higher pedigree-estimated inbreeding coefficient errors than previously reported, perhaps a result of the pedigree depth, and the ability of genomic ancestral analysis to answer questions that pedigree analyses cannot. Due to the genomic relatedness, these results may provide more detailed guidelines in maintaining genetic diversity in this breed through selective outbreeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social networking sites regularly feature requests for assistance, although the massive number of users represents corresponding scope for diffusion of responsibility; and unlike most physical scenarios, the request for help is often made several days before assistance is offered. The present research used a specially-prepared imitation social networking site (SNS) with embedded requests for assistance, and manipulations of the number of virtual bystanders and time since the request was posted to test whether explanations of helping in physical settings apply to SNS contexts. Results showed that offers of assistance were explained less well by social impact theory, which states that propensity to offer help will decrease in proportion to the number of bystanders who can assist, than by the social influence model, which states that diffusion of responsibility effects will cease to become significantly stronger beyond a certain critical number of bystanders; and that assistance is offered more readily for recent requests than those made two days earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The number of food pantries in the U.S. has grown dramatically over 3 decades, yet food insecurity remains a persistent public health problem. Purpose: The goal of the study was to examine the impact of a food pantry intervention called Freshplace, designed to promote food security. Design: Randomized parallel-group study with equal randomization. Setting/participants: Data were collected from June 2010 to June 2012; a total of 228 adults were recruited over 1 year from traditional food pantries and randomized to the Freshplace intervention (n=113) or control group (n=115), with quarterly follow-ups for 12 months. Intervention: The Freshplace intervention included a client-choice pantry, monthly meetings with a project manager to receive motivational interviewing, and targeted referrals to community services. Control group participants went to traditional food pantries where they received bags of food. Main outcome measures: Data analyses were conducted from July 2012 to January 2013. Outcomes were food security, self-sufficiency, and fruit and vegetable consumption. Multivariate regression models were used to predict the three outcomes, controlling for gender, age, household size, income, and presence of children in the household. Results: At baseline, half of the sample experienced very low food security. Over 1 year, Freshplace members were less than half as likely to experience very low food security, increased self-sufficiency by 4.1 points, and increased fruits and vegetables by one serving per day compared to the control group, all outcomes p<0.01. Conclusions: Freshplace may serve as a model for other food pantries to promote food security rather than short-term assistance by addressing the underlying causes of poverty. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Genetic diagnosis of HERDA in an adult, working horse with mild signs • Clinical presentation demonstrates a mild case in a homozygote • HERDA may have other genetic factors influencing severity that need further research. Hereditary Equine Regional Dermal Asthenia (HERDA) is an autosomal recessive condition present in the American Quarter Horse and other related breeds. Resulting from a mutation in the peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase B (PPIB) gene, HERDA is homologous to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in humans. Characterized by fragile, hyperelastic, skin, HERDA affected horses often present first with slow-healing wounds usually on the dorsum, and resulting in atrophic scars, seromas, and ulcers. As there is no treatment for the condition affected horses are typically reported to be unrideable, and if persistent wounds are sufficiently severe, may require euthanasia. This case report describes clinical presentation and genetic diagnostics of HERDA in an 8-year-old horse with notably mild clinical signs, previously undiagnosed. On recommendation from the referring veterinarian, the horse owners pursued genetic diagnostics for HERDA following development of painful dorsal skin lesions under the saddle area during a riding clinic. The individual was confirmed homozygous for HERDA c.115G>A missense mutation in the PPIB gene by commercial testing service (Etalon Diagnostics Inc.). Further objective studies on the severity and clinical presentation of HERDA are necessary to evaluate complex elements of this disease. Furthermore, mildly affected individuals may be underdiagnosed as a result of not demonstrating the clinical signs that commonly encourage genetic testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Examine relationships between food security, diet quality, and body mass index (BMI) among food pantry users. Methods: Convenience sample of 212 food pantry clients in Hartford, CT from June, 2010 to May, 2011. Main outcomes included food security (United States Department of Agriculture module), fruit and vegetable consumption (Block Screener), and BMI (stadiometer and digital medical scale). Chi-square tests, Spearman correlations, and logistic regression models were analyzed. Results: Over half of the sample (50.5%) had very low food security. Mean BMI was 29.5 kg/m2. Age was positively associated with food security (P < .01). Food-secure participants were twice as likely to eat fruit, vegetables, and fiber as food-insecure participants (P - .04). Women were 4 times as likely to be obese as men (P < .01), yet food insecurity was not associated with obesity in this sample. Conclusions and Implications: Ensuring the nutritional adequacy of donated food is an important consideration for food donors and pantry staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Literature on food environments is expanding rapidly, yet a gap exists regarding the role of the U.S. Department of Agriculture''s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) on healthy food availability. In October 2009, the U.S. Department of Agriculture revised the WIC food package, requiring certified stores to stock fresh produce, whole grains, and lower-fat milk. Purpose: The goal of this study is to compare availability of foods in stores that are versus those that are not WIC-certified before and after the policy change. Methods: Store inventories were collected in 45 corner stores in Hartford CT with four inventories each (180 total inventories) from January 2009 to January 2010. Data on availability and variety of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lower-fat milk were recorded. Analyses were completed in 2012 using Fisher''s exact test, chi-square, and t-tests for descriptive analyses and multilevel models to measure food availability longitudinally (significance at p<0.05). Results: Controlling for covariates, WIC-certified vendors carried more varieties of fresh fruit (p<0.01); a greater proportion of lower-fat milk (p<0.01); and had greater availability of whole grain bread (p<0.01) and brown rice (p<0.05) than vendors without WIC authorization after the policy change. Conversely, for all outcomes, stores without WIC authorization did not significantly increase healthy food availability. Conclusions: The 2009 WIC revisions increased availability of healthy foods among WIC-certified vendors compared to those without WIC authorization in Hartford CT. For many residents without a car, these changes can create a convenient shopping location for healthy foods when a larger supermarket is not nearby. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article explores whether social capital—a measure of trust, reciprocity and social networks—is positively associated with household food security, independent of household-level socioeconomic factors. Interviews were conducted in 330 low-income households from Hartford, Connecticut. Social capital was measured using a 7-item Likert scale and was analyzed using household- and community-level scores. Household food security and hunger were measured using the US Household Food Security Module. χ2 tests were used to examine associations between social capital, food security and household demographic characteristics. Logistic regression was used to examine whether household- and community-level social capital decreases the odds of household hunger, and to estimate which household characteristics increase the likelihood of having social capital. Consistent with our hypotheses, social capital, at both the household and community levels, is significantly associated with household food security in these data. Community-level social capital is significantly associated with decreased odds of experiencing hunger (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=0.47 [95% CI 0.28, 0.81], P<0.01), while controlling for household socioeconomic status. Results show that households with an elderly member are over two and a half times as likely to have high social capital (AOR=2.68 [1.22, 5.87], P<0.01) than are non-elderly households, after controlling for socioeconomic status. Having a household member who participates in a social or civic organization is also significantly associated with having higher levels of social capital. Social capital, particularly in terms of reciprocity among neighbors, contributes to household food security. Households may have similarly limited financial or food resources, but households with higher levels of social capital are less likely to experience hunger. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To examine participation in the Food Stamp Program, food pantries, and soup kitchens and to identify reasons food-insecure households choose not to participate. Design: Cross-sectional retrospective cohort study. Setting: In respondents' homes. Participants: 330 randomly selected low-income households (below 185% of poverty). Main Outcome Measures: Participation in any of 3 public or private food assistance programs and barriers to participation in each program. Analysis: Chi-square tests of association between program participation and sociodemographic characteristics. Logistic regression tested for associations between program participation and ethnicity and between food security status and household composition while controlling for potential confounding factors. Results: Controlling for socioeconomic status, Black households are less than half as likely to receive food stamps (odds ratio [OR] = 0.49; P < .02) as Hispanic households. Hispanic households are more likely than non-Hispanic households to say that they feel uncomfortable using food pantries (P < .01). Elderly households are less than half as likely to receive food stamps (OR = 0.44; P = .04) as nonelderly households and are more likely to say that they feel uncomfortable receiving food stamps (P = .05). Conclusions and Implications: Low-income households' perceptions of which programs are socially acceptable differ by race and age. Outreach for food stamps and private food assistance should accommodate these differences so that food-insecure households can benefit from all available food assistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) collectively describes the constellation of effects resulting from human alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Even with public awareness, the incidence of FASD is estimated to be upwards of 5% in the general population and is becoming a global health problem. The physical, cognitive, and behavioral impairments of FASD are recapitulated in animal models. Recently rodent models utilizing voluntary drinking paradigms have been developed that accurately reflect moderate consumption, which makes up the majority of FASD cases. The range in severity of FASD characteristics reflects the frequency, dose, developmental timing, and individual susceptibility to alcohol exposure. As most rodent models of FASD use C57BL/6 mice, there is a need to expand the stocks of mice studied in order to more fully understand the complex neurobiology of this disorder. To that end, we allowed pregnant Swiss Webster mice to voluntarily drink ethanol via the drinking in the dark (DID) paradigm throughout their gestation period. Ethanol exposure did not alter gestational outcomes as determined by no significant differences in maternal weight gain, maternal liquid consumption, litter size, or pup weight at birth or weaning. Despite seemingly normal gestation, ethanol-exposed offspring exhibit significantly altered timing to achieve developmental milestones (surface righting, cliff aversion, and open field traversal), as analyzed through mixed-effects Cox proportional hazards models. These results confirm Swiss Webster mice as a viable option to study the incidence and causes of ethanol-induced neurobehavioral alterations during development. Future studies in our laboratory will investigate the brain regions and molecules responsible for these behavioral changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional methods of programmed shape change in polymers are one-way and one-time only. We introduce a new method of combining a bioinspired, hierarchical architecture with the pre-strain generated by extrusion-based 3D printing to encode multiple permanent shapes in thermoplastic polymer shell structures. At high temperature, these structures are multistable and can snap repeatedly between all encoded permanent shapes without reprogramming. At low temperature, the structures are monostable with increased stiffness; the multistability can be switched on and off via temperature. Characterization studies are performed to determine how to control the level of pre-strain and the deflection behavior of the structure to enable finite element modeling for analysis and design. This pre-straining technique may be thought of as a virtual mold: printed structures are initially flat but have multiple permanent shapes encoded. Taking advantage of the geometric freedom of 3D printing, complex geometries, and pre-strain fields may be used to create highly tailored snapping structures. Thermoplastic filaments with added particles may be used to impart additional multifunctionality to the structures, such as magnetic responsiveness, to enable remote actuation. These switchable multistable structures have potential applications in fields including robotics, aerospace, and smart buildings. graphical abstract • Multiple permanent shapes are encoded in shape memory polymer structures. • Printed polymer structures have reversible, repeatable morphing without reprogramming. • Multistability can be repeatedly switched on and off with temperature. • 3D printing is used to create bioinspired hierarchical architectures. • Amount of pre-strain is controlled through print settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The US food banking network serves about 46.5 million individuals with food insecurity yearly. People living with food insecurity are at risk of diet-related chronic diseases and evidence suggests that foods available in food pantries are mostly nutritionally poor. In response, the Supporting Wellness at Pantries (SWAP) system ranks food into green, yellow, and red categories based on the levels of saturated fat, sodium, and sugar. SWAP is designed to increase the supply and demand for healthy food in pantries. To assess the nutritional quality of clients' selections before and after implementing the SWAP system. Availability of green, yellow, and red items was captured pre- and post-intervention using a pantry inventory assessment. For the intervention, foods in the pantry were rearranged by SWAP ranking and signage was added to educate clients about which items to choose often (green), sometimes (yellow), or rarely (red). Two-hundred twenty-two clients participated in the pre-post study. Clients' selections were recorded and the proportion of green and red selections in total and per food group were calculated. Primary analyses compared the proportion of green and red foods chosen by clients before and after SWAP implementation using independent t-tests. A regression model was used to compare clients' selection pre to post while controlling for food pantry inventory. There was not a significant change in the overall pantry inventory over time. However, the proportion of healthy (ie, green) food selections significantly increased and less healthy (ie, red) food selections significantly decreased. The overall improvement in nutritional quality of the clients' carts remained significant while controlling for the pantry inventory. Results suggest that nutrition information provided through stoplight signage and clear messages on items to choose often, sometimes, and rarely can shift client choices in the pantry setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]