Katherin Bermudez - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Katherin Bermudez

Obesity, 2001

BERMUDEZ, ODILIA I. AND KATHERINE L. TUCKER. Total and central obesity among elderly Hispanics an... more BERMUDEZ, ODILIA I. AND KATHERINE L. TUCKER. Total and central obesity among elderly Hispanics and the association with type 2 diabetes. Obes Res. 2001;9:443-451. Objective: To report the prevalence of total and central obesity in a representative sample of Puerto Rican and Dominican elders in Massachusetts, to compare them with a neighborhood-based group of non-Hispanic white elders, and to examine associations of obesity indices with the presence of type 2 diabetes.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 2000

Primary cultures of oligodendrocytes were used to study the toxic effects of cadmium chloride. Ce... more Primary cultures of oligodendrocytes were used to study the toxic effects of cadmium chloride. Cell viability was evaluated by the mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and confirmed by propidium iodide (PI) fluorescence staining. The expression of the 72 kDa stress protein, HSP72, was assayed by Western blot analysis. The results showed that Cd 2ϩ -induced toxicity was dependent on the time and dose of exposure, as well as on the developmental stage of the cultures. Oligodendrocyte progenitors were more vulnerable to Cd 2ϩ toxicity than were mature oligodendrocytes. Mature oligodendrocytes accumulated relatively higher levels of Cd 2ϩ than did progenitors, as determined by 109 CdCl 2 uptake; treatment with the metal ion caused a more pronounced reduction in intracellular glutathione levels and significantly higher free radical accumulation in progenitors. The latter could explain the observed differences in Cd 2ϩ susceptibility. HSP72 protein expression was increased both in progenitors and in mature cells exposed to Cd 2ϩ . Pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, a thiocompound with antioxidant activity and a precursor of glutathione, prevented Cd 2ϩ -induced (i) reduction in glutathione levels and (ii) induction of HSP72 and diminished (i) Cd 2ϩ uptake and (ii) Cd 2ϩ -evoked cell death. In contrast, buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of ␥-glutamyl-cysteine synthetase, depleted glutathione, and potentiated the toxic effect of Cd 2ϩ . These results strongly suggest that Cd 2ϩ -induced cytotoxicity in oligodendrocytes is mediated by reactive oxygen species and is modulated by glutathione levels.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 2004

Oxidant stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)... more Oxidant stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). Isoprostanes (IsoPs) are bioactive products of lipid peroxidation abundantly generated during hypoxic -ischemic injuries. Because loss of oligodendrocytes (OLs) occurs early in PVL, we hypothesized that IsoPs could induce progenitor OL death. 15-E 2t -IsoP but not 15-F 2t -IsoP elicited a concentration-dependent death of progenitor OLs by oncosis and not by apoptosis, but exerted minimal effects on mature OLs. 15-E 2t -IsoP-induced cytotoxicity could not be explained by its conversion into cyclopentenones, because PGA 2 was hardly cytotoxic. On the other hand, thromboxane A 2 (TxA 2 ) synthase inhibitor CGS12970 and cyclooxygenase inhibitor ibuprofen attenuated 15-E 2t -IsoPinduced cytotoxicity. Susceptibility of progenitor OLs was independent of TxA 2 receptor (TP) expression, which was far less in progenitor than in mature OLs. However, TxA 2 synthase was detected in precursor but not in mature OLs, and TxA 2 mimetic U46619 induced hydroperoxides generation and progenitor OL death. The glutathione synthesis enhancer N-acetylcysteine prevented 15-E 2t -IsoP-induced progenitor cell death. Depletion of glutathione in mature OLs with buthionine sulfoximine rendered them susceptible to cytotoxicity of 15-E 2t -IsoP. These novel data implicate 15-E 2t -IsoP as a product of oxidative stress that may contribute in the genesis of PVL. D 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

We determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension in Hispanic elders, ages... more We determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension in Hispanic elders, ages 60-92 years, living in Massachusetts. Cross-sectional study. State of Massachusetts. A representative sample of 597 Hispanics of Caribbean origin (77% Puerto Ricans and 23% Dominicans) and 243 non-Hispanic Whites from the same neighborhoods. Blood pressure, income, health behaviors, chronic conditions, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. Hypertension was prevalent in all groups: 66% for Puerto Rican and 73% Dominican men, 69% for non-Hispanic White men; and 75%, 76%, and 74% for women in these groups, respectively. Twenty-one percent of Puerto Rican and 15% of Dominican women had systolic hypertension, compared to 9% for non-Hispanic White women (P < .01 anti P < .05, respectively). The prevalence of systolic hypertension was 14% and 21% for Puerto Rican and Dominican men, compared to 13% for non-Hispanic White men (not significant). Puerto Rican women with hypertension were less likely to have their blood pressure under control than were non-Hispanic While women. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders remained more than 2.6 times more likely to have systolic hypertension than non-Hispanic White elders after adjusting potential confounders. Hypertension is prevalent in this population and systolic hypertension is more prevalent among Hispanic vs non-Hispanic White elders. Investigation of genetic or other factors associated with this apparent excess risk of systolic hypertension among elderly Hispanics, particularly among women, is warranted.

Journal of The American Dietetic Association, 2004

To examine α-tocopherol intake and food sources of α-tocopherol in the US population relative to ... more To examine α-tocopherol intake and food sources of α-tocopherol in the US population relative to current Dietary Reference Intakes for vitamin E.We analyzed food source and intake data from the 1994 to 1996 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII) with added values for α-tocopherol from the US Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Release 15.Data from 5,056 men and 4,703 women aged 20 years and older were obtained from the 1994 to 1996 CSFII.The complex design and sampling weights of the CSFII survey were taken into account to calculate the mean α-tocopherol intake from diet, the SEM, and the percent of the Estimated Average Requirements (EARs) for α-tocopherol intake by age group and region.Only 8.0% of men and 2.4% of women in the United States met the new EARs for vitamin E intake from foods alone. Regionally, only 5.8% of men and 2.1% of women in the South met these EARs, relative to 9.0% and 2.6%, respectively, in the Northeast. Top contributors of α-tocopherol for men and women included ready-to-eat cereal, sweet baked products, white bread, beef, oils, and salad dressing.The majority of men and women in the United States fail to meet the current recommendations for vitamin E intake. Many of the top contributors are not particularly high sources of α-tocopherol but are consumed frequently. Greater inclusion of sources such as nuts, seeds, and vitamin E-rich oils, could improve intake of α-tocopherol.

Biochemical Journal, 2001

Homogeneous assays, without a separation step, are essential for measuring chemical events in liv... more Homogeneous assays, without a separation step, are essential for measuring chemical events in live cells and for drug discovery screens, and are desirable for making measurements in cell extracts or clinical samples. Here we demonstrate the principle of chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET) as a homogeneous assay system, using two proteases as models, one extracellular (α-thrombin) and the other intracellular (caspase-3). Chimaeras were engineered with aequorin as the chemiluminescent energy donor and green fluorescent protein (GFP) or enhanced GFP as the energy acceptors, with a protease linker (6 or 18 amino acid residues) recognition site between the donor and acceptor. Flash chemiluminescent spectra (20-60 s) showed that the spectra of chimaeras matched GFP, being similar to that of luminous jellyfish, justifying their designation as Abbreviations used : CCD, charge-coupled device ; CRET, chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer ; EGFP, enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP human codon usage, with the mutation S65T) ; EGCAq, EGFP-caspase-3 linker-aequorin ; EGTAq, EGFP-α-thrombin linker-aequorin ; FMK, fluoromethylketone ; FRET, fluorescence resonance energy transfer ; GFP, green fluorescent protein ; GAq, GFP-aequorin ; GCAq, GFP-caspase-3 linker-aequorin ; GTAq, GFP-α-thrombin linker-aequorin ; LAq, firefly-luciferase-aequorin ; Z-, benzyloxycarbonyl. ).

Hispanics are a rapidly growing population in Massachusetts, but little is known about the health... more Hispanics are a rapidly growing population in Massachusetts, but little is known about the health, nutrition, and economic situation of the elder segment of these groups. In this report, we examine factors associated with poverty and the use of food assistance programs, using data from an NIA-funded project on Hispanic elders in Massachusetts. Poverty is shown to be a major problem with differences across Hispanic subgroups. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders have lower incomes, on average, than other Hispanics-mainly Cubans, and Central and South Americans-or than non-Hispanic whites living in the same neighborhoods. Older age, lower education, and living alone are associated with poverty within this population. Limited income sources and recent immigration are also important factors. Hispanic elders are more likely to receive SSI benefits, but are much less likely to have pension income. Financial insecurity in old age among Hispanics is associated with more chronic ailment and mobility limitations. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders have the highest poverty and disability rates and report the most food insecurity.

Journal of The American Dietetic Association, 2000

To describe the food intake and food sources of macronutrients in diets of older Hispanic adults ... more To describe the food intake and food sources of macronutrients in diets of older Hispanic adults in the Northeastern United States and to explore relationships between acculturation, years in the United States, and macronutrient intake. Cross-sectional study using a representative sample of older Hispanic adults and a comparison group of non-Hispanic whites. Hispanic (n = 711) and non-Hispanic white (n = 226) persons, aged 60 years and older, residing in Massachusetts. Macronutrient intakes, collected by 24-hour dietary recall, were compared across ethnic groups by means of the general linear models procedure (with Bonferroni adjustments). Associations between macronutrient intake and predictor variables were tested with Pearson correlations and linear regression. The contribution of foods to total intake of macronutrients was determined by use of a rank procedure. Hispanic elderly subjects consumed significantly less saturated fat and simple sugars and more complex carbohydrates than did non-Hispanic whites. Hispanics residing in the United States for a longer time tended to have macronutrient profiles more similar to those of the non-Hispanic whites. Rice for Hispanic and bread for non-Hispanics were the major contributors of energy. More acculturated Hispanic elders consumed fewer ethnic foods and more foods related to the non-Hispanic-white eating patterns than those less acculturated. Efforts to promote better diets among Hispanic elders need to emphasize maintenance or adoption of healthful dietary patterns based on ethnic and modern foods that will satisfy their biological, emotional, and social needs. Dietitians and other dietetics practitioners can use the information presented here in studying nutrition-related chronic diseases, in public health planning, and in nutrition education and promotion efforts directed to ethnic-specific, elderly Hispanic groups.

Annals of The New York Academy of Sciences, 2004

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 2011

To assess associations between acculturation, depression, and self-reported stress score with rep... more To assess associations between acculturation, depression, and self-reported stress score with reported diagnosis of respiratory disease (RD) in Puerto Rican adults, participants (N = 1,168) were identified from areas of high Hispanic density in the Boston, MA metropolitan area. Eligible participants were interviewed in the home by bilingual interviewers in either Spanish or English. Scales included topics ranging from general background to depressive symptomatology. Respiratory disease was self-reported and checked against prescribed medication. More than one-third (37.8%) of subjects reported doctor-diagnosed RD. A final binary logistical regression model (N = 850), which was adjusted for potential confounders (sex, age, education, poverty) showed that RD was significantly associated with psychological acculturation (OR = 1.97, P = 0.005), depressive symptomatology (OR = 1.52, P = 0.03) high perceived stress score (OR = 1.97, P = 0.009), and current smoking (OR = 1.61, P = 0.03). Significant inverse associations included a high level of language acculturation (OR = 0.65, P = 0.03), light (OR = 0.67, P = 0.01) and moderate to heavy physical activity versus sedentary physical activity (OR = 0.40, P = 0.03). We found self reported physician diagnosed RD was associated with high perceived stress and depression, as well as higher levels of psychological acculturation. Longitudinal research is needed to determine if there is a causal pathway for these associations.

To study issues of diet and health among Hispanic adults living in the northeastern United States... more To study issues of diet and health among Hispanic adults living in the northeastern United States, the authors adapted a version of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)/Block food frequency questionnaire. Foods that contributed to nutrient intake of Puerto Rican adults in the Hispanic Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (HHANES) were ranked to identify items to be added to the food list. Portion sizes were compared across HHANES and the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II) to assess the adequacy of the assumed values. Within line items, frequencies of consumption of individual foods were ranked and these data were used to adjust the weighting factors within the database. To test the revised form, 24-hour recalls were collected from 90 elderly Hispanics and 35 elderly non-Hispanic whites. These data were coded into the original and revised food frequency forms and nutrient intake results were compared with recall results by paired f-test, and by Pearson and intraclass correlations. Added foods include plantains, avocado, mango, cassava, empanadas, and custard. Portion sizes differed significantly between HHANES and NHANES II, and were left open-ended. Estimated mean nutrient intakes and correlations with recall data were lower with the original versus the revised form. The authors conclude that the use in minority populations of food frequency questionnaires developed for the general population is likely to result in biased estimates of intake unless modifications are made in the questionnaires. Am J Epidemiol 1998; 148:507-18.

It is important to characterize the level and magnitude of changes in food consumption patterns i... more It is important to characterize the level and magnitude of changes in food consumption patterns in Latin American populations as they undergo demographic and developmental transitions because of the effects of such changes on the development and progression of chronic diseases. This paper examines trends in food intake across regions in Latin America. Although trends in apparent food consumption differ in magnitude and timing, the overall patterns of change are remarkably consistent. Intakes of total fat, animal products, and sugar are increasing, even while there have been rapid declines in the intake of cereals, fruit, and some vegetables. The costs of the increased prevalence of chronic disease associated with these dietary changes are already affecting health systems still coping with malnutrition and infectious disease. Because this pattern of change is predictable, it is important to learn from the experiences gained in countries that are more advanced in the transition. Efforts to educate the population on the importance of a healthy diet and to issue policies to improve the availability of a healthy food supply can help to reduce the rapid escalation of obesity and chronic diseases.

Iron status and dietary correlates of iron status have not been well described in Hispanic older ... more Iron status and dietary correlates of iron status have not been well described in Hispanic older adults of Caribbean origin.

Journal of Comparative Neurology, 1999

Among higher metazoans, echinoderms exhibit the most impressive capacity for regeneration. Holoth... more Among higher metazoans, echinoderms exhibit the most impressive capacity for regeneration. Holothurians, or sea cucumbers, respond to adverse stimuli by autotomizing and ejecting their visceral organs, which are then regenerated. Neuronal fibers and cell bodies are present within the viscera, but previous regeneration studies have not accounted for the nervous component. We used light microscopic immunocytochemistry and ultrastructural studies to describe the regeneration of the enteric nervous system in the sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima. This study provides evidence that the enteric nervous system of this echinoderm regenerates after evisceration and that in 3-5 weeks the regenerated system is virtually identical to that of noneviscerated animals. The regeneration of the enteric nervous system occurs parallel to the regeneration of other organ components. Nerve fibers and cells are observed within the mesenterial thickenings that give rise to the new intestine and within the internal connective tissue prior to lumen formation. We also used bromodeoxyuridine incorporation to show that proliferation of the neuronal population occurs in the regenerating intestine. The regeneration of the nervous system commands high interest because members of the closely related phylum Chordata either lack or have a very limited capacity to regenerate their nervous system. Thus, holothurians provide a model system to study enteric nervous system regeneration in deuterostomes.

Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies, 2011

The media representations of refugees who are HIV-positive often revolve around criminal transmis... more The media representations of refugees who are HIV-positive often revolve around criminal transmission cases. This study examines the approach the Australian mass media have taken toward the case of two men from refugee backgrounds and how this stigmatizing language is unhelpful in discussions of HIV. An extensive search of the Factiva database was undertaken for all newspaper articles in the major dailies that mentioned “HIV,” “AIDS,” and “refugee” between 2002 and 2008. Analysis was guided by several approaches to media analysis in an attempt to understand the representations of HIV-positive refugees. When analyzing the media articles of criminal cases relating to HIV we found that refugees who are HIV-positive were portrayed in a negative fashion, with the concept of “otherness” prominent throughout most newspaper media reports. Considering this is the main source of information for most people concerning HIV, this representation carries the potential to lead to further stigma and discrimination to both people living with HIV and refugees.

a-Tocopherol from foods has been associated with protection against several chronic diseases and ... more a-Tocopherol from foods has been associated with protection against several chronic diseases and maintenance of immune function. However, most people do not meet current recommendations for intake. We examined a-tocopherol intake and plasma concentration in a representative sample of Puerto Rican and Dominican older adults (n ¼ 447) and in neighborhood-matched non-Hispanic whites (n ¼ 155). A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intake. Mean dietary intakes of a-tocopherol were 6 mg in both ethnicities. Only 4.7% of women and 7.9% of men met the estimated average requirement (12 mg/d) for vitamin E from food alone. Top sources of a-tocopherol for Hispanics included oils and milk, and for non-Hispanic whites they were ready-to-eat breakfast cereal and sweet baked products.

American Journal of Public Health, 2000

Obesity, 2001

BERMUDEZ, ODILIA I. AND KATHERINE L. TUCKER. Total and central obesity among elderly Hispanics an... more BERMUDEZ, ODILIA I. AND KATHERINE L. TUCKER. Total and central obesity among elderly Hispanics and the association with type 2 diabetes. Obes Res. 2001;9:443-451. Objective: To report the prevalence of total and central obesity in a representative sample of Puerto Rican and Dominican elders in Massachusetts, to compare them with a neighborhood-based group of non-Hispanic white elders, and to examine associations of obesity indices with the presence of type 2 diabetes.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 2000

Primary cultures of oligodendrocytes were used to study the toxic effects of cadmium chloride. Ce... more Primary cultures of oligodendrocytes were used to study the toxic effects of cadmium chloride. Cell viability was evaluated by the mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and confirmed by propidium iodide (PI) fluorescence staining. The expression of the 72 kDa stress protein, HSP72, was assayed by Western blot analysis. The results showed that Cd 2ϩ -induced toxicity was dependent on the time and dose of exposure, as well as on the developmental stage of the cultures. Oligodendrocyte progenitors were more vulnerable to Cd 2ϩ toxicity than were mature oligodendrocytes. Mature oligodendrocytes accumulated relatively higher levels of Cd 2ϩ than did progenitors, as determined by 109 CdCl 2 uptake; treatment with the metal ion caused a more pronounced reduction in intracellular glutathione levels and significantly higher free radical accumulation in progenitors. The latter could explain the observed differences in Cd 2ϩ susceptibility. HSP72 protein expression was increased both in progenitors and in mature cells exposed to Cd 2ϩ . Pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, a thiocompound with antioxidant activity and a precursor of glutathione, prevented Cd 2ϩ -induced (i) reduction in glutathione levels and (ii) induction of HSP72 and diminished (i) Cd 2ϩ uptake and (ii) Cd 2ϩ -evoked cell death. In contrast, buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of ␥-glutamyl-cysteine synthetase, depleted glutathione, and potentiated the toxic effect of Cd 2ϩ . These results strongly suggest that Cd 2ϩ -induced cytotoxicity in oligodendrocytes is mediated by reactive oxygen species and is modulated by glutathione levels.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 2004

Oxidant stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)... more Oxidant stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). Isoprostanes (IsoPs) are bioactive products of lipid peroxidation abundantly generated during hypoxic -ischemic injuries. Because loss of oligodendrocytes (OLs) occurs early in PVL, we hypothesized that IsoPs could induce progenitor OL death. 15-E 2t -IsoP but not 15-F 2t -IsoP elicited a concentration-dependent death of progenitor OLs by oncosis and not by apoptosis, but exerted minimal effects on mature OLs. 15-E 2t -IsoP-induced cytotoxicity could not be explained by its conversion into cyclopentenones, because PGA 2 was hardly cytotoxic. On the other hand, thromboxane A 2 (TxA 2 ) synthase inhibitor CGS12970 and cyclooxygenase inhibitor ibuprofen attenuated 15-E 2t -IsoPinduced cytotoxicity. Susceptibility of progenitor OLs was independent of TxA 2 receptor (TP) expression, which was far less in progenitor than in mature OLs. However, TxA 2 synthase was detected in precursor but not in mature OLs, and TxA 2 mimetic U46619 induced hydroperoxides generation and progenitor OL death. The glutathione synthesis enhancer N-acetylcysteine prevented 15-E 2t -IsoP-induced progenitor cell death. Depletion of glutathione in mature OLs with buthionine sulfoximine rendered them susceptible to cytotoxicity of 15-E 2t -IsoP. These novel data implicate 15-E 2t -IsoP as a product of oxidative stress that may contribute in the genesis of PVL. D 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

We determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension in Hispanic elders, ages... more We determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension in Hispanic elders, ages 60-92 years, living in Massachusetts. Cross-sectional study. State of Massachusetts. A representative sample of 597 Hispanics of Caribbean origin (77% Puerto Ricans and 23% Dominicans) and 243 non-Hispanic Whites from the same neighborhoods. Blood pressure, income, health behaviors, chronic conditions, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. Hypertension was prevalent in all groups: 66% for Puerto Rican and 73% Dominican men, 69% for non-Hispanic White men; and 75%, 76%, and 74% for women in these groups, respectively. Twenty-one percent of Puerto Rican and 15% of Dominican women had systolic hypertension, compared to 9% for non-Hispanic White women (P < .01 anti P < .05, respectively). The prevalence of systolic hypertension was 14% and 21% for Puerto Rican and Dominican men, compared to 13% for non-Hispanic White men (not significant). Puerto Rican women with hypertension were less likely to have their blood pressure under control than were non-Hispanic While women. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders remained more than 2.6 times more likely to have systolic hypertension than non-Hispanic White elders after adjusting potential confounders. Hypertension is prevalent in this population and systolic hypertension is more prevalent among Hispanic vs non-Hispanic White elders. Investigation of genetic or other factors associated with this apparent excess risk of systolic hypertension among elderly Hispanics, particularly among women, is warranted.

Journal of The American Dietetic Association, 2004

To examine α-tocopherol intake and food sources of α-tocopherol in the US population relative to ... more To examine α-tocopherol intake and food sources of α-tocopherol in the US population relative to current Dietary Reference Intakes for vitamin E.We analyzed food source and intake data from the 1994 to 1996 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII) with added values for α-tocopherol from the US Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Release 15.Data from 5,056 men and 4,703 women aged 20 years and older were obtained from the 1994 to 1996 CSFII.The complex design and sampling weights of the CSFII survey were taken into account to calculate the mean α-tocopherol intake from diet, the SEM, and the percent of the Estimated Average Requirements (EARs) for α-tocopherol intake by age group and region.Only 8.0% of men and 2.4% of women in the United States met the new EARs for vitamin E intake from foods alone. Regionally, only 5.8% of men and 2.1% of women in the South met these EARs, relative to 9.0% and 2.6%, respectively, in the Northeast. Top contributors of α-tocopherol for men and women included ready-to-eat cereal, sweet baked products, white bread, beef, oils, and salad dressing.The majority of men and women in the United States fail to meet the current recommendations for vitamin E intake. Many of the top contributors are not particularly high sources of α-tocopherol but are consumed frequently. Greater inclusion of sources such as nuts, seeds, and vitamin E-rich oils, could improve intake of α-tocopherol.

Biochemical Journal, 2001

Homogeneous assays, without a separation step, are essential for measuring chemical events in liv... more Homogeneous assays, without a separation step, are essential for measuring chemical events in live cells and for drug discovery screens, and are desirable for making measurements in cell extracts or clinical samples. Here we demonstrate the principle of chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET) as a homogeneous assay system, using two proteases as models, one extracellular (α-thrombin) and the other intracellular (caspase-3). Chimaeras were engineered with aequorin as the chemiluminescent energy donor and green fluorescent protein (GFP) or enhanced GFP as the energy acceptors, with a protease linker (6 or 18 amino acid residues) recognition site between the donor and acceptor. Flash chemiluminescent spectra (20-60 s) showed that the spectra of chimaeras matched GFP, being similar to that of luminous jellyfish, justifying their designation as Abbreviations used : CCD, charge-coupled device ; CRET, chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer ; EGFP, enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP human codon usage, with the mutation S65T) ; EGCAq, EGFP-caspase-3 linker-aequorin ; EGTAq, EGFP-α-thrombin linker-aequorin ; FMK, fluoromethylketone ; FRET, fluorescence resonance energy transfer ; GFP, green fluorescent protein ; GAq, GFP-aequorin ; GCAq, GFP-caspase-3 linker-aequorin ; GTAq, GFP-α-thrombin linker-aequorin ; LAq, firefly-luciferase-aequorin ; Z-, benzyloxycarbonyl. ).

Hispanics are a rapidly growing population in Massachusetts, but little is known about the health... more Hispanics are a rapidly growing population in Massachusetts, but little is known about the health, nutrition, and economic situation of the elder segment of these groups. In this report, we examine factors associated with poverty and the use of food assistance programs, using data from an NIA-funded project on Hispanic elders in Massachusetts. Poverty is shown to be a major problem with differences across Hispanic subgroups. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders have lower incomes, on average, than other Hispanics-mainly Cubans, and Central and South Americans-or than non-Hispanic whites living in the same neighborhoods. Older age, lower education, and living alone are associated with poverty within this population. Limited income sources and recent immigration are also important factors. Hispanic elders are more likely to receive SSI benefits, but are much less likely to have pension income. Financial insecurity in old age among Hispanics is associated with more chronic ailment and mobility limitations. Puerto Rican and Dominican elders have the highest poverty and disability rates and report the most food insecurity.

Journal of The American Dietetic Association, 2000

To describe the food intake and food sources of macronutrients in diets of older Hispanic adults ... more To describe the food intake and food sources of macronutrients in diets of older Hispanic adults in the Northeastern United States and to explore relationships between acculturation, years in the United States, and macronutrient intake. Cross-sectional study using a representative sample of older Hispanic adults and a comparison group of non-Hispanic whites. Hispanic (n = 711) and non-Hispanic white (n = 226) persons, aged 60 years and older, residing in Massachusetts. Macronutrient intakes, collected by 24-hour dietary recall, were compared across ethnic groups by means of the general linear models procedure (with Bonferroni adjustments). Associations between macronutrient intake and predictor variables were tested with Pearson correlations and linear regression. The contribution of foods to total intake of macronutrients was determined by use of a rank procedure. Hispanic elderly subjects consumed significantly less saturated fat and simple sugars and more complex carbohydrates than did non-Hispanic whites. Hispanics residing in the United States for a longer time tended to have macronutrient profiles more similar to those of the non-Hispanic whites. Rice for Hispanic and bread for non-Hispanics were the major contributors of energy. More acculturated Hispanic elders consumed fewer ethnic foods and more foods related to the non-Hispanic-white eating patterns than those less acculturated. Efforts to promote better diets among Hispanic elders need to emphasize maintenance or adoption of healthful dietary patterns based on ethnic and modern foods that will satisfy their biological, emotional, and social needs. Dietitians and other dietetics practitioners can use the information presented here in studying nutrition-related chronic diseases, in public health planning, and in nutrition education and promotion efforts directed to ethnic-specific, elderly Hispanic groups.

Annals of The New York Academy of Sciences, 2004

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 2011

To assess associations between acculturation, depression, and self-reported stress score with rep... more To assess associations between acculturation, depression, and self-reported stress score with reported diagnosis of respiratory disease (RD) in Puerto Rican adults, participants (N = 1,168) were identified from areas of high Hispanic density in the Boston, MA metropolitan area. Eligible participants were interviewed in the home by bilingual interviewers in either Spanish or English. Scales included topics ranging from general background to depressive symptomatology. Respiratory disease was self-reported and checked against prescribed medication. More than one-third (37.8%) of subjects reported doctor-diagnosed RD. A final binary logistical regression model (N = 850), which was adjusted for potential confounders (sex, age, education, poverty) showed that RD was significantly associated with psychological acculturation (OR = 1.97, P = 0.005), depressive symptomatology (OR = 1.52, P = 0.03) high perceived stress score (OR = 1.97, P = 0.009), and current smoking (OR = 1.61, P = 0.03). Significant inverse associations included a high level of language acculturation (OR = 0.65, P = 0.03), light (OR = 0.67, P = 0.01) and moderate to heavy physical activity versus sedentary physical activity (OR = 0.40, P = 0.03). We found self reported physician diagnosed RD was associated with high perceived stress and depression, as well as higher levels of psychological acculturation. Longitudinal research is needed to determine if there is a causal pathway for these associations.

To study issues of diet and health among Hispanic adults living in the northeastern United States... more To study issues of diet and health among Hispanic adults living in the northeastern United States, the authors adapted a version of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)/Block food frequency questionnaire. Foods that contributed to nutrient intake of Puerto Rican adults in the Hispanic Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (HHANES) were ranked to identify items to be added to the food list. Portion sizes were compared across HHANES and the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II) to assess the adequacy of the assumed values. Within line items, frequencies of consumption of individual foods were ranked and these data were used to adjust the weighting factors within the database. To test the revised form, 24-hour recalls were collected from 90 elderly Hispanics and 35 elderly non-Hispanic whites. These data were coded into the original and revised food frequency forms and nutrient intake results were compared with recall results by paired f-test, and by Pearson and intraclass correlations. Added foods include plantains, avocado, mango, cassava, empanadas, and custard. Portion sizes differed significantly between HHANES and NHANES II, and were left open-ended. Estimated mean nutrient intakes and correlations with recall data were lower with the original versus the revised form. The authors conclude that the use in minority populations of food frequency questionnaires developed for the general population is likely to result in biased estimates of intake unless modifications are made in the questionnaires. Am J Epidemiol 1998; 148:507-18.

It is important to characterize the level and magnitude of changes in food consumption patterns i... more It is important to characterize the level and magnitude of changes in food consumption patterns in Latin American populations as they undergo demographic and developmental transitions because of the effects of such changes on the development and progression of chronic diseases. This paper examines trends in food intake across regions in Latin America. Although trends in apparent food consumption differ in magnitude and timing, the overall patterns of change are remarkably consistent. Intakes of total fat, animal products, and sugar are increasing, even while there have been rapid declines in the intake of cereals, fruit, and some vegetables. The costs of the increased prevalence of chronic disease associated with these dietary changes are already affecting health systems still coping with malnutrition and infectious disease. Because this pattern of change is predictable, it is important to learn from the experiences gained in countries that are more advanced in the transition. Efforts to educate the population on the importance of a healthy diet and to issue policies to improve the availability of a healthy food supply can help to reduce the rapid escalation of obesity and chronic diseases.

Iron status and dietary correlates of iron status have not been well described in Hispanic older ... more Iron status and dietary correlates of iron status have not been well described in Hispanic older adults of Caribbean origin.

Journal of Comparative Neurology, 1999

Among higher metazoans, echinoderms exhibit the most impressive capacity for regeneration. Holoth... more Among higher metazoans, echinoderms exhibit the most impressive capacity for regeneration. Holothurians, or sea cucumbers, respond to adverse stimuli by autotomizing and ejecting their visceral organs, which are then regenerated. Neuronal fibers and cell bodies are present within the viscera, but previous regeneration studies have not accounted for the nervous component. We used light microscopic immunocytochemistry and ultrastructural studies to describe the regeneration of the enteric nervous system in the sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima. This study provides evidence that the enteric nervous system of this echinoderm regenerates after evisceration and that in 3-5 weeks the regenerated system is virtually identical to that of noneviscerated animals. The regeneration of the enteric nervous system occurs parallel to the regeneration of other organ components. Nerve fibers and cells are observed within the mesenterial thickenings that give rise to the new intestine and within the internal connective tissue prior to lumen formation. We also used bromodeoxyuridine incorporation to show that proliferation of the neuronal population occurs in the regenerating intestine. The regeneration of the nervous system commands high interest because members of the closely related phylum Chordata either lack or have a very limited capacity to regenerate their nervous system. Thus, holothurians provide a model system to study enteric nervous system regeneration in deuterostomes.

Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies, 2011

The media representations of refugees who are HIV-positive often revolve around criminal transmis... more The media representations of refugees who are HIV-positive often revolve around criminal transmission cases. This study examines the approach the Australian mass media have taken toward the case of two men from refugee backgrounds and how this stigmatizing language is unhelpful in discussions of HIV. An extensive search of the Factiva database was undertaken for all newspaper articles in the major dailies that mentioned “HIV,” “AIDS,” and “refugee” between 2002 and 2008. Analysis was guided by several approaches to media analysis in an attempt to understand the representations of HIV-positive refugees. When analyzing the media articles of criminal cases relating to HIV we found that refugees who are HIV-positive were portrayed in a negative fashion, with the concept of “otherness” prominent throughout most newspaper media reports. Considering this is the main source of information for most people concerning HIV, this representation carries the potential to lead to further stigma and discrimination to both people living with HIV and refugees.

a-Tocopherol from foods has been associated with protection against several chronic diseases and ... more a-Tocopherol from foods has been associated with protection against several chronic diseases and maintenance of immune function. However, most people do not meet current recommendations for intake. We examined a-tocopherol intake and plasma concentration in a representative sample of Puerto Rican and Dominican older adults (n ¼ 447) and in neighborhood-matched non-Hispanic whites (n ¼ 155). A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intake. Mean dietary intakes of a-tocopherol were 6 mg in both ethnicities. Only 4.7% of women and 7.9% of men met the estimated average requirement (12 mg/d) for vitamin E from food alone. Top sources of a-tocopherol for Hispanics included oils and milk, and for non-Hispanic whites they were ready-to-eat breakfast cereal and sweet baked products.

American Journal of Public Health, 2000