Digital Commons Network^™

Colocalization And Functional Analyses Identify Gbe1 As A Gene Linking Muscle Strength And Cardiometabolic Fitness, Theresia M. Schnurr, Miranda L. Johnson, Christopher Jin, Kimmie V. Sørensen, Lindsey Kim, James W. Jahng, Amanda Ramste, Ewa Bielczyk-Maczynska, Michael J. Gloudemans, Peter Saliba-Gustafsson, Elena Vinton, Patrick L. Jurney, Ivan Carcamo-Orive, Euan A. Ashley, Torben Hansen, Joshua W. Knowles, Brian T. Palmisano

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Handgrip strength is a proxy for muscular fitness, an indicator for general health status, and is associated with cardiometabolic health. The mechanisms connecting handgrip strength to skeletal muscle function are incompletely understood. We applied integrated linkage-disequilibrium-adjusted colocalization analysis of genome-wide association study summary statistics for handgrip strength, combined with expression and splicing quantitative trait loci from skeletal muscle, and identified glycogen branching enzyme 1 (GBE1) as a candidate gene for handgrip strength. CRISPR-interference knockdown of GBE1 in immortalized human skeletal muscle cells (HMCL-7304) demonstrated decreased glycogen content and accumulation of polyglucosan bodies. Knockdown of GBE1 led to increased oxygen consumption …

A Supply And Demand Intervention Increased Fish Consumption Among Rural Women: A Randomized, Controlled Trial, Alexander Tilley, Kendra A. Byrd, Hamza Altarturi, Gianna Bonis-Profumo, Joctan Dos Reis Lopes, Mario Gomes, Katherine Klumpyan, Lorenzo Longobardi, Kelvin Mashisia Shikuku

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Malnutrition is a critical public health issue in Timor-Leste, where nearly half of children under five suffer from stunting and diets are chronically low in nutrient-rich foods, including fish. We conducted a cluster-randomized, 2×2 factorial, parallel-arm controlled trial to evaluate the effects of nearshore fish-aggregating devices (FADs, a technology designed to increase pelagic fish catch rates), social behaviour change (SBC) interventions, and their combination, on household fish purchasing and consumption in inland villages of Timor-Leste. However, inland households exposed to both FADs and SBC were nearly twice as likely to purchase fish (PR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.14–3.20, p<0.05) and women were over four times as likely to report fish consumption the previous day (PR: 4.17, 95% CI: 1.88–9.29, p<0.001), compared to controls. No significant effects were observed from FADs or SBC alone. These findings suggest that the combination of supply-side (FAD) and demand-side (SBC) interventions is necessary to improve dietary intake in nutritionally vulnerable, inland populations. These results underscore the importance of integrated food system approaches to address poor diet quality and reduce malnutrition risks in small island developing states. Trial registration: Trial registered at clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT04729829.

Spartan Daily, February 18, 2026, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2026

Volume 166, Issue 12

Spartan Daily, February 5, 2026, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2026

Volume 166, Issue 7

Spartan Daily, February 3, 2026, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2026

Volume 166, Issue 5

Spartan Daily, January 28, 2026, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2026

Volume 166, Issue 3

Combining Crispr And Nanoasv To Uncover The Rare Bacterial Communities Of The Human Oral Microbiome, Gilma Ruth Sevilla Alvarez

Master's Projects

Studying the oral microbiome is vital because its health implications are not contained to the mouth. Cariogenic bacteria cause tooth demineralization and oral microbes that translocate to extra-oral organ systems are linked to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Some of these pathogens belong to the most abundant phyla in the oral cavity: Bacillota, Pseudomonadota, Bacteroidota, Actinomycetota, Spirochaetota, and Fusobacteriota, which together comprise 94% of the oral microbiome. This project uses CRISPR-Cas9 to deplete sequences from highly abundant phyla and the Eubacteria domain, enriching the remaining 6% of rarer taxa. Paired with NanoASV for single-nucleotide resolution, this …

South Asian Nutrition Guide For Heart Health: A Practical Guide To Sodium, Saturated Fat, Packaged Foods, Recipes And Meal Planning, Ashwini Wagle

Open Educational Resources

South Asians, including people with ancestry from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives, have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes than many other populations. They often develop heart disease at younger ages and sometimes at lower body weights. (Jose, 2024; Patel et al., 2021; Volgman et al., 2018).

This increased risk is not caused by a single factor. Evidence points to a combination of inherited, metabolic, lifestyle, and social influences. Common contributors include insulin resistance, abdominal or visceral fat, type 2 diabetes, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, elevated lipoprotein(a), family history, stress, migration-related changes …

South Asians And Renal Disease: Traditional Food Lists For Management Of Chronic Kidney Disease, Ashwini Wagle

Open Educational Resources

The renal food list is a culturally tailored nutrition education tool designed to address the specific dietary needs of the South Asian population. It is an original intellectual work created by Ashwini Wagle, Ed.D., MS, RD, FAND, Chair and Professor, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, and Packaging at San José State University (SJSU).

An earlier version of this tool was published in 2011 with the assistance of graduate student Kalpana Balasubramanian. The development of this renal food list was strengthened by the encouragement and support of the registered dietitian community, whose contributions included verifying the accuracy of the nutritional information …

Supporting Latine Older Adults’ Nutrition And Physical Health Goals In Counseling, Zachary P. Mcniece, Jacqueline J. Bergman

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Latine older adults face disproportionate risk of chronic nutrition-related conditions and food insecurity, which can exacerbate or contribute to the development of mental health-related concerns. Cultural stigma toward mental illness can result in Latine clients, especially older adults, somatizing symptoms and focusing on physical health goals in counseling. Despite these intersecting needs, counselors often overlook clients’ physical health goals due to limited training and the assumption that medical providers alone should address them. This article advocates integrating basic, culturally responsive nutrition information into counseling practice to support client well-being while staying within the scope of practice. We offer practical recommendations …

Mobile Markets And Farmers’ Markets: Evaluating Food Accessibility For Underserved Communities In The Bay Area, Rajeshwari Rajesh

Master's Theses

Studies indicate including farmers’ markets, mobile markets, and other local food systems improve fresh food access for low-income communities, especially when paired with food assistance programs that offer financial incentives. This study aims to evaluate mobile markets and farmers’ markets in the Bay Area using the five dimensions of food access: accessibility, availability, acceptability, affordability, and accommodation. The study is based on primary data collected from 173 in-person surveys at six mobile and eight farmers’ markets in the Santa Clara and Contra Costa counties. Key survey participants were market shoppers participating in food assistance programs. A mixed research methodology included …

Spartan Daily, November 19, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 37

Spartan Daily, November 18, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 36

Spartan Daily, November 11, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 34

Spartan Daily, November 4, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 31

Effects Of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction And Transglutaminase Treatment On The Physicochemical Properties Of Protein From Stropharia Rugosoannulata, Lingyu Yang, Lili Yang, Xi Feng, Yang Xiao, Xiaoju Tian, Wen Huang, Ying Liu

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Protein from edible mushrooms can serve as a new alternative protein to replace meat in various food formulations. However, the processing characteristics of mushroom protein were poor. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and transglutaminase (TGase) were used for the modification of protein from Stropharia rugosoannulata (SRP) to improve its utilization. The optimal parameters of UAE were 480 W for 20 min. The process of TGase modification was optimized by a single-factor experiment and response surface test to obtain the TGase dosage of 0.36 % (w/w), cross-linking at 40℃ for 1.5 h, and reaction pH of 5.4. The effects of …

Spartan Daily, October 21, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 25

Spartan Daily, October 15, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 23

Spartan Daily, October 14, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 22

Comparative Analysis Of Mineral Content In Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: Implications For Renal Patient Education, K. Mitchell, A. Widaman, Ashwini Wagle

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

The plant-based milk alternative (PBMA) market is expanding rapidly, offering a diverse range of options. However, the mineral composition of PBMA varies significantly across brands and milk types, posing challenges in educating individuals with renal disease. This study aimed to quantify and compare key minerals of concern for renal patients in commercially available PBMA using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

PBMA products available in the San Francisco Bay Area were purchased from chain grocery stores in spring 2023 and early January 2024. A total of 134 unique PBMA products from 28 brands and 11 different milk-alternative sources were analyzed. …

Relationship Between Dietary Probiotic Consumption And Cognitive Functioning In Older Adults: A 2011-2014 Nhanes Study, Lauren Weber, J. Gieng, Ashwini Wagle

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Background

Consumption of probiotics has recently been associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline due to its anti-inflammatory effect on the brain, via the gut-brain-axis. Current studies with probiotic supplementation indicate that probiotics may play an important role in slowing the rate of cognitive decline and protecting memory. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a potential relationship between cognitive decline and dietary intake of probiotics.

Methods

This study utilized data from NHANES, both 2011-2012 and 2013-2014 cycles. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square tests, and continuous variables were analyzed using General Linear Models. Participants (n = 2,689) …

Enhancing Workplace Nutrition: Development Of A Culturally-Tailored Nutrition Intervention Program To Improve Dietary Patterns, Habits, Nutrition Literacy, And Health Outcomes, J. Ryan, S. Agreda, Ashwini Wagle

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Nutrition intervention programs can improve dietary patterns, habits, and health outcomes in communities, but a long-term, integrative approach is essential for success. Barriers such as limited time, resources, lack of cultural sensitivity, and competing priorities hinder their effectiveness. Research highlights the importance of environmental support, particularly from peers and employers, in improving dietary habits and nutrition literacy.

Using the social ecological model framework for food and beverage intake, this program aims to develop a standardized approach to workplace nutrition interventions. The program, approved by the Institutional Review Boards at San Jose State University, will launch in Spring 2025. It incorporates …

Developing Culturally-Tailored Diabetes Friendly And Heart Healthy Recipes For South Asians: Sensory Evaluation And Implications For Dietary Interventions, Ashwini Wagle, S. Starr, N. Goudarzi, G. Molina Martinez

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

South Asians have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than manyother racial or ethnic groups. Dietary patterns are a key, modifiable risk factor, and cultural influences strongly shape food choices and lifestyle decisions. Effective, long-term behavior change requires culturally meaningful interventions. This study aimed to develop culturally tailored recipes that comply with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.

Recipes were selected from the published South Asian Carbohydrate Counting Tool, created by the researcher, and modified to enhance nutrient composition. Adjustments included ingredient substitutions, reduction or elimination of fat, salt, and sugar, and additions …

Effectiveness And Assessment Of A Culturally-Tailored Carbohydrate Counting Tool For South Asians With Diabetes: A Practitioner’S Evaluation, Ashwini Wagle

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

South Asians are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes compared to many other racial and ethnic groups. Dietary patterns play a significant role and are a modifiable risk factor. This study aimed to evaluate a South Asian carbohydrate counting tool developed by the researcher, assessed by Registered Dietitians Nutritionists and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. Using nutrition communication theory and the transtheoretical model, the tool included a comprehensive list of commonly consumed South Asian foods and sample vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals (1800e2100 kcal). Sixty-five participants received the tool and a training slide deck. A 40-item questionnaire assessed …

Spartan Daily, September 24, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 12

Spartan Daily, September 18, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 12

Gc-Ms-Based Metabolomics For Understanding The Metabolite Profile Of Mopane Worm (Gonimbrasia Belina) And Sorghum (Sorghum Bicolor L), Mpho Sebabiki Maleke, Tumisi Beiri Jeremiah Molelekoa, Jonathan Wilkin, Xi Feng, Moira Ledbetter, Oluwafemi Ayodeji Adebo

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Edible insects are nutritious, having high levels of protein, essential amino acids, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. In areas where sorghum is a primary crop, mixing this gluten-free grain with protein-rich insect powder provides a novel approach to making nutrient-rich products. Understanding the sorghum and mopane worm flours' metabolomic changes during bioprocessing can however, enhance their nutritional value and food safety. The research investigated metabolite compounds that are found in raw and processed (fermented, malted (sorghum), and ultrasonicated) mopane worms and sorghum. In the study, sorghum grains were traditionally fermented and malted at 35°C for 48 h and ultrasonicated for …

Spartan Daily, September 17, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 11

Spartan Daily, September 16, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 10

Temperature And Pressure Shaped The Evolution Of Antifreeze Proteins In Polar And Deep Sea Zoarcoid Fishes, Samuel N. Bogan, Nathan Surendran, Scott Hotaling, Thomas Desvignes, Iliana Bista, Luana S.F. Lins, Mari H. Eilertsen, Nathalie R. Le François, Tait Algayer, Scott L. Hamilton, Paul B. Frandsen, Federico G. Hoffmann, Joanna L. Kelley

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) have enabled teleost fishes to repeatedly colonize polar seas. Four AFP types have convergently evolved in several fish lineages. AFPs inhibit ice crystal growth and lower tissue freezing point. In lineages with AFPs, species inhabiting colder environments may possess more AFP copies. Elucidating how differences in AFP copy number evolve is challenging due to the genes' tandem array structure and consequently poor resolution of these repetitive regions. Here, we explore the evolution of type III AFPs (AFP III) in the globally distributed suborder Zoarcoidei, leveraging six new long-read genome assemblies. Zoarcoidei has fewer genomic resources relative to …