ALBERT

Description: Background The Paleolithic diet is promoted worldwide for improved gut health. However, there is little evidence available to support these claims, with existing literature examining anthropometric and cardiometabolic outcomes. Objective To determine the association between dietary intake, markers of colonic health, microbiota, and serum trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a gut-derived metabolite associated with cardiovascular disease. Design In a cross-sectional design, long-term (n = 44, 〉 1 year) self-reported followers of a Paleolithic diet (PD) and controls (n = 47) consuming a diet typical of national recommendations were recruited. Diets were assessed via 3-day weighed diet records; 48-h stool for short chain fatty acids using GC/MS, microbial composition via 16S rRNA sequencing of the V4 region using Illumina MiSeq. TMAO was quantified using LC–MS/MS. Results Participants were grouped according to PD adherence; namely excluding grains and dairy products. Strict Paleolithic (SP) (n = 22) and Pseudo-Paleolithic (PP) (n = 22) groups were formed. General linear modelling with age, gender, energy intake and body fat percentage as covariates assessed differences between groups. Intake of resistant starch was lower in both Paleolithic groups, compared to controls [2.62, 1.26 vs 4.48 g/day (P 

Description: Purpose Intermittent energy restriction (IER) is a popular weight loss (WL) strategy; however, its efficacy in clinical practice remains unknown. The present study compared the effects of IER compared to continuous energy restriction (CER) on WL and cardiometabolic risk factors in primary care. Methods A (self-selected) cohort study was conducted at the Rotherham Institute for Obesity (RIO), a primary care-based weight management service. 197(24% male) obese patients volunteered to participate and selected their diet group. IER participants (n = 99) consumed ~ 2600 kJ for two days/week. CER participants (n = 98) restricted their diet by ~ 2100 kJ/day below estimated requirements. Both interventions were delivered alongside RIO standard care. Changes in anthropometry and cardiometabolic disease risk markers (fasting biochemistry and blood pressure) were assessed after a 6-month intervention period and then participants were followed up again 6 months later (month 12). Results 27 IER patients (27%) and 39 CER patients (40%) completed the 6-month weight loss phase. Among completers, mean (SEM) WL was greater in the IER group at 6 months (5.4 ± 1.1% versus 2.8 ± 0.6%; p = 0.01), as were reductions in fat mass (p 

Description: Purpose Food-based dietary guidelines are proposed to not only improve diet quality, but to also reduce the environmental impact of diets. The aim of our study was to investigate whether food-related behavioral activation therapy (F-BA) applying Mediterranean-style dietary guidelines altered food intake and the environmental impact of the diet in overweight adults with subsyndromal symptoms of depression. Methods In total 744 adults who either received the F-BA intervention (F-BA group) or no intervention (control group) for 12 months were included in this analysis. Food intake data were collected through a food frequency questionnaire at baseline and after 6 and 12 months. Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), land use (LU), and fossil energy use (FEU) estimates from life-cycle assessments and a weighted score of the three (pReCiPe score) were used to estimate the environmental impact of each individual diet at each timepoint. Results The F-BA group reported increased intakes of vegetables (19.7 g/day; 95% CI 7.8–31.6), fruit (23.0 g/day; 9.4–36.6), fish (7.6 g/day; 4.6–10.6), pulses/legumes (4.0 g/day; 1.6–6.5) and whole grains (12.7 g/day; 8.0–17.5), and decreased intake of sweets/extras (− 6.8 g/day; − 10.9 to − 2.8) relative to control group. This effect on food intake resulted in no change in GHGE, LU, and pReCiPe score, but a relative increase in FEU by 1.6 MJ/day (0.8, 2.4). Conclusions A shift towards a healthier Mediterranean-style diet does not necessarily result in a diet with reduced environmental impact in a real-life setting. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov. Number of identification: NCT02529423. August 2015.

Description: Purpose Previously, the nutritional contribution, environmental and financial costs of dairy products have been examined independently. Our aim was to determine the nutritional adequacy, financial cost and environmental impact of UK diets according to dairy content. Methods In this cross-sectional study of adults (19–64 years) from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey years 1–4 (n = 1655), dietary intakes assessed from 4-day estimated food diaries were organized into quartiles (Q) total grams of dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, dairy desserts) and analyzed using ANCOVA controlling for age, sex and energy intake with Bonferroni post hoc test for nutritional adequacy, Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI-2010), environmental impact [greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), eutrophication and acidification potentials], financial cost, markers of health and cardio-metabolic diseases. Results Nutritional adequacy, particularly for protein, calcium and iodine (+ 18 g, + 533 mg, + 95 g, respectively, all P 

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Coal-fired power stations are significant sources of soil contamination with heavy metals and a source of hazard to human health. The soil samples (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 25) selected in the area around Novocherkassk Power Station (Rostov Region, Russia) within a radius of up to 20 km revealed the enrichment with Pb, Cu and Zn. The heavy metals (HM) content in soil is reduced in the following sequence: Mn 〉 Cr 〉 Zn 〉 Ni 〉 Cu 〉 Pb 〉 Co. The correlation diagrams of the HM total content in soils revealed a significant association between the following HM pairs: Cu–Pb, Ni–Cu, Cd–Ni, Cd–Cu (〈em〉r〈/em〉 ≥ 0.7, 〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.001). The concentration coefficient (Kc) and the total pollution coefficient (Zc) were used to estimate anthropogenic pollution. The use of generalized additive model (GAM) to detect the dependence of HM distribution on factors revealed the significance of the source distance. The influence of wind rhumb on HM distribution has a complex nonlinear nature. A GAM shows a good performance for all data sets: 〈em〉R〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.71, 81% deviance explained for Zn, 〈em〉R〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.85, 91% deviance explained for Cd, 〈em〉R〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.63, 70% deviance explained for Ni. Thus, GAM model reveals significant factors (Dist_km, rhumb) in forming pollution by heavy metals in studied impact zone and proved a valuable approach to assess the degree and sources of pollution in soils on a large scale.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The objective of this secondary analysis is to describe the types of commercial complementary foods (CCF) consumed by infants and young children enrolled in the European Childhood Obesity Project (CHOP), to describe the contribution of CCF to dietary energy intakes and to determine factors associated with CCF use over the first 2 years of life.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉The CHOP trial is a multicenter intervention trial in Germany, Belgium, Italy, Poland and Spain that tested the effect of varying levels of protein in infant formula on the risk for childhood obesity. Infants were recruited from October 2002 to June 2004. Dietary data on CCF use for this secondary analysis were taken from weighted, 3-day dietary records from 1088 infants at 9 time points over the first 2 years of life.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Reported energy intakes from CCF during infancy (4–9 months) was significantly higher (〈em〉p〈/em〉 ≤ 0.002) amongst formula-fed children compared to breastfed children. Sweetened CCF intakes were significantly higher (〈em〉p〈/em〉 ≤ 0.009) amongst formula-fed infants. Female infants were fed significantly less CCF and infant age was strongly associated with daily CCF intakes, peaking at 9 months of age. Infants from families with middle- and high-level of education were fed significantly less quantities of CCF compared to infants with parents with lower education. Sweetened CCF were very common in Spain, Italy and Poland, with over 95% of infants and children fed CCF at 9 and 12 months of age consuming at least one sweetened CCF. At 24 months of age, 68% of the CHOP cohort were still fed CCF.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉CCF comprised a substantial part of the diets of this cohort of European infants and young children. The proportion of infants being fed sweetened CCF is concerning. More studies on the quality of commercial complementary foods in Europe are warranted, including market surveys on the saturation of the Western European market with sweetened CCF products.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈p〉Authors of the original article have observed an inadvertent error in their manuscript post-publication.〈/p〉

Description: 〈span〉 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Soils from the old Mortórios uranium mine area were studied to look for contamination, as they are close to two villages, up to 3 km away, and used for agriculture. They are mainly contaminated in U and As and constitute an ecological threat. This study attempts to outline the degree to which soils have been affected by the old mining activities through the computation of significant hot clusters, Traditional geostatistical approaches commonly use raw data (concentrations) accepting that the analyzed elements represent the soil’s entirety. However, in geochemical studies these elements are just a fraction of the total soil composition. Thus, considering compositional data is pivotal. The spatial characterization, considering raw and compositional data together, allowed a broad discussion about not only the concentrations’ spatial distribution, but also a better understanding on the possibility of trends of “relative enrichment” and, furthermore an insight in U and As fate. The highest proportions (compositional data) on U (up to 33%), As (up to 35%) and Th (up to 13%) are reached in the south-southeast segment. However, the highest concentrations (raw data) occur in north and northwest of the studied area, pointing out to a “relative enrichment” toward the south-southeast zone. The Mondego Sul area is mainly contaminated in U and As, but also in Co, Cu, Pb and Sb. The Mortórios area is less contaminated than the Mondego Sul area.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Graphic abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉 〈span〉 〈span〉 〈img alt="" src="https://static-content.springer.com/image/MediaObjects/10653_2019_347_Figa_HTML.png"〉 〈/span〉 〈/span〉 〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Insufficient information on the link between health data and geology in developing countries is a major barrier to identify sources of some emerging public health problems. A total of 2868 soil samples were collected from field sheet 0503B in Ghana to evaluate the concentrations and distributions of trace elements and their effects on human health. The samples were sieved to 〈 106 µm fraction and analysed for elements, As, Ba, K, Zn, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Mg and Fe by XRF technique and Au by fire assay method. The study identified disparities in averages of As, Cr, Fe and Mg, which resulted in enrichment and deficiencies when compared with the worldwide background average. The measured averages for As and Cr were 17.27 mg/kg and 89.25 mg/kg, respectively, for the entire area. Both averages exceeded the worldwide background values of 10 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg of As and Cr. The four traditional towns with varied activities recorded As concentrations ranging from 6.11 mg/kg at Samreboi, 16.29 mg/kg at Asankragwa, 17.42 mg/kg at Akropong and 25.99 mg/kg at Bogoso. Principal component analysis revealed a good association among Ba, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Ni, Pb and Zn in Group 1, and their main source was interpreted as the underlying geology. Arsenic, Cr and Mg in Group 2 show a relatively weak correlation, and their sources were ascribed to a combination of geologic and anthropogenic sources. Gold had a good correlation with As, which was associated with the hydrothermal veins in the underlying rocks. The spatial plots generated from transformed soil data by Getis Ord Gi* treatments were visual methods to clearly identify geographically the hotspots and coldspots of elements that cause diseases.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Knowledge on the fraction of trace elements in the bottom sediments is a key to understand their mobility and ecotoxicological impact. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of the content of organic matter fractions on the mobility and ecotoxicity of trace elements in sediments from the Rybnik reservoir. The most refractory fraction of organic matter—Cnh (non-hydrolysing carbon)—dominated in the sediments. The content of organic matter fractions are arranged in the following order: Cnh (non-hydrolysing carbon) 〉 Cfa (fulvic acid) 〉 Cha (humic acid) 〉 DOC (dissolved organic carbon). On the other hand, the highest value of correlation coefficients was found for different fractions of trace elements and DOC content in the bottom sediments. A higher content of TOC in the sediments significantly increased the share of elements in the potential mobile fraction and, at the same time, decreased the binding of elements in the mobile fractions. Moreover, in sediments that contain more than 100 g/kg d.m. TOC, no and medium risk of trace element release from sediments was observed. The Cu, Cd and Ni were potentially the most toxic elements for biota in the Rybnik reservoir. However, the correlation between the content of trace elements and the response of bacteria was insignificant. These results suggested that the complexation of trace elements with organic matter makes them less toxic for 〈em〉Vibrio fischeri〈/em〉. The transformation and sources of organic matter play an important role in the behaviour of trace elements in the bottom sediments of the Rybnik reservoir.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Epidemiological studies directly investigating the association between different types of meat intake and cognitive impairment are limited. We, therefore, examined this association in the Singapore Chinese Health Study.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In total, 16,948 participants were included in analysis. Diet was measured by a 165-item semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire at baseline (1993–1998) when participants were 45–74 years. Cognitive impairment was defined using a Singapore modified version of Mini-Mental State Examination during follow-up three visits (2014–2016) when participants were 61–96 years. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Cognitive impairment was present in 2443 (14.4%) participants. Compared to the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of red meat intake was associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.32, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 for trend = 0.009), while the corresponding value for poultry intake was 0.89 (95% CI 0.78–1.02, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 for trend = 0.10). Higher fresh fish/shellfish was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.77–1.00, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 for trend = 0.03), while preserved fish/shellfish intake was associated with a higher risk (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.04–1.36, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 for trend = 0.01).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study found that a higher intake of red meat in midlife was associated with increased likelihood of cognitive impairment in later life, while substitution of red meat intake with poultry or fresh fish/shellfish was associated with reduced risk.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Composting is an efficient and cost-effective technology for sewage sludge treatment, and bulking agents are essential in sewage sludge composting. In this study, perlite was chosen as inorganic bulking agent to partially substitute for the organic bulking agent. Variations in the temperature, bulk density, moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were detected during sewage sludge composting. The treatment with a mass ratio of spent mushroom substrate to perlite at 3:1 exhibited the highest pile temperature and the best effect on reducing bulk density and moisture content. In addition, Fourier transform infrared spectra showed that perlite promotes the degradation of organic matter during the composting process, and the germination index showed that the compost from all treatments was safe for agricultural application. When the mass ratios of spent mushroom substrate and perlite at 3:1 and 2:2 were chosen as bulking agents, the sewage sludge compost product could be used to produce plant cultivation substrate, and economic benefits could be obtained from sewage sludge composting according to comprehensive cost analysis.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study aimed to select rivers of priority management through the assessment of heavy metal pollution of sediments. We investigated the distribution characteristics of heavy metals in surface sediments of the Nakdong River in South Korea and used various pollution indices to assess pollution risk and identify factors influencing pollution. The kriging method was used to determine heavy metal distribution. The pollution load index, potential ecological risk index, mean PEL quotient, and the Canada Council of Ministers of the Environment sediment quality index were used as sediment pollution assessment methods. The toxicity evaluation was performed on sites that appeared to be contaminated, by applying existing methods for assessing sediment pollution level and the national standards for evaluating the pollution level. The toxicity test was performed on 〈em〉Hyalella azteca,〈/em〉 and a methodology for assessing sediment pollution level was proposed. Ecotoxicity was assessed at seven sites that were found to have heavy metal contaminants. The results showed that sites N1, N8, T28, and T29 were not toxic, while T8, T19, and T21 were. Thus, this study shows that high heavy metal pollution does not necessarily lead to a toxic environment. To assess sediment pollution, an additional assessment of toxicity should be made, along with assessments of existing sediment pollution. Our results demonstrate that streams showing high sediment pollution levels should be granted priority in management. The efforts should particularly focus on Cu at T8, Cr at T19, and Hg at T21.〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉In the original publication, the funding and conflict of interest statements were not correct.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Enterolignans are important biomarkers of microbiota diversity, with higher levels indicating greater diversity. Diet and inflammation have been shown to play a role in maintaining microbiota diversity. This study examined whether inflammatory potential of diet, as measured by the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII〈sup〉®〈/sup〉) has an impact on levels of urinary enterolignans in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2008. We also carried out construct validation of the DII with C-reactive protein (CRP).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Data came from NHANES 2003–2008. Enterolignans [enterodiol (END) and enterolactone (ENL)] and CRP were assayed from urine and serum specimens, respectively. Energy-adjusted DII (E-DII) scores were calculated from food intakes assessed using 24-h dietary recalls and expressed per 1000 calories consumed. Associations were examined using survey-based multivariable linear and logistic regression for enterolignans, and logistic regression for CRP.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉After multivariable adjustment, higher E-DII scores (i.e., indicating a relatively more pro-inflammatory diet) were associated with lower levels of creatinine-normalized END [beta coefficient (〈em〉b〈/em〉)〈sub〉DIIquartile4vs1〈/sub〉 = − 1.22; 95% CI = − 0.69, − 1.74; 〈em〉P〈/em〉〈sub〉trend〈/sub〉 ≤ 0.001] and ENL (〈em〉b〈/em〉〈sub〉DIIquartile4vs1〈/sub〉 = − 7.80; 95% CI = − 5.33, − 10.26; 〈em〉P〈/em〉〈sub〉trend〈/sub〉 ≤ 0.001). A positive association was also observed when enterolignans were dichotomized based on the cut-off of the 75th percentile value. In this same sample, the E-DII also was associated with CRP ≥ 3 mg/l (OR〈sub〉DIIcontinuous〈/sub〉 = 1.12; 95% CI 1.05, 1.19).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉In these NHANES data, there was an association between E-DII score and enterolignans. This study also provided construct validation of the E-DII using CRP in a nationally representative sample. The results indicate that dietary inflammatory potential is associated with urinary enterolignans, a potential marker for microbiota diversity. However, studies are required to understand the direct association between DII and microbiota.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Groundwater quality in the alluvial plains of Punjab has special significance and needs great attention since it is the foremost source of drinking, irrigation and industrial uses. The present research work emphasizes the integrated hydrogeochemical and chemometric statistical approaches to appraise the geochemical processes and source apportionment of the groundwater in the alluvial plains of Jalandhar district, Punjab, India. The human health risk assessment was also performed to quantify the potential non-carcinogenic impacts of nitrate and fluoride on human health through ingestion of groundwater. For this purpose, 41 groundwater samples were collected from different groundwater abstraction units and analysed for pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, total alkalinity and major ions (Ca〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉, Mg〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉, Na〈sup〉+〈/sup〉, K〈sup〉+〈/sup〉, HCO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, CO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉2−〈/sup〉, SO〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉2−〈/sup〉, NO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, F〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, Cl〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 and PO〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉3−〈/sup〉) using standard protocols. Drinking water quality index and Revelle index showed that groundwater samples fall under poor to unfit water class and salinization along the south-western portion of the study region shows poor water quality. The results of the hazard index (HI〈sub〉ingestion〈/sub〉) show 68% and 46.34% of the groundwater samples have HI 〉 1 for children and adults. The non-carcinogenic health risk assessment of nitrate (NO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉) and fluoride (F〈sup〉−〈/sup〉) on the local population indicated that the children are more vulnerable through direct ingestion of drinking water than adults. Piper diagram and saturation index reveal that Ca〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉–Mg〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉–HCO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 is the dominant hydrochemical facies and oversaturated with calcite, dolomite and aragonite minerals in the groundwater. Gibbs diagrams, chloro-alkaline indices and scatter plots show that the hydrochemistry of the groundwater is mainly governed by aquifer material interaction such as weathering of silicate, carbonate rock, halite dissolution and cation exchange process. Chemometric statistical techniques revealed that the source identification of parameters such as Ca〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉, Mg〈sup〉2+〈/sup〉, Na〈sup〉+〈/sup〉, K〈sup〉+〈/sup〉, HCO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, CO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 and F〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 is originated from geogenic factors, whereas NO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, SO〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉2−〈/sup〉, Cl〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 and PO〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉3−〈/sup〉 are from the anthropogenic origin. Therefore, urgent and efficient measures must be taken to combat groundwater pollution and reduce human health risk in the study area.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Soil geochemistry and phytoavailable trace elements were investigated in 80 paddy soil samples and corresponding rice grains from the Mekong River Delta in Vietnam. Soil parameters like Fe-, Al-, and Mn-phases, organic matter, and pH-value determine element concentrations in soil and affect their transfer into rice grains. Arsenic exceeded the allowed limit for Vietnamese agricultural soils in 11% of the samples, presumably caused by natural processes. Lead surpassed the limit in one soil sample. Other toxic elements were close to their natural concentrations and far below allowable limits for agricultural soil. There was no clear correlation of trace element concentrations in soils with those in corresponding grains, even if the different soil parameters and the large pH-range between 3.7 and 6.8 were considered. To assess health risks of critical elements in rice, the thresholds of tolerable upper intake level for total food and drinking water (UL) and of permissible maximum concentration (MC) for rice grains were evaluated. Surprisingly, rice grains grown on non- or low-polluted soils can surpass the upper limits. According to the UL concept, 12% of the grains exceeded the UL of As, 29% that of Cd, and 27% that of Pb for each gender. According to the MC concept, 5% of the rice grains exceeded the MC of inorganic As for adults and 38% that for young children. 24% of the grains surpassed the MC of Pb, while Cd in all grains was below the MC. The differing results of the UL and MC approaches show an urgent need for revision and harmonization concerning As, Cd, and Pb limits, especially regarding countries with high rice consumption.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Evidence of low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets (LCHF) for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) prevention is scarce. We investigated how carbohydrate intake relates to HbA1c and T2DM prevalence in a nationally representative survey dataset.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉We analyzed dietary information (4-day food diaries) from 3234 individuals aged ≥ 16 years, in eight waves of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2008–2016). We calculated LCHF scores (0–20, higher score indicating lower  %food energy from carbohydrate, with reciprocal higher contribution from fat) and UK Dietary Reference Value (DRV) scores (0–16, based on UK dietary recommendations). Associations between macronutrients and diet scores and diabetes prevalence were analyzed (in the whole sample) using multivariate logistic regression. Among those without diabetes, analyses between exposures and %HbA1c (continuous) were analyzed using multivariate linear regression. All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, ethnicity, smoking status, total energy intake, socioeconomic status and survey years.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉In the overall study sample, 194 (6.0%) had diabetes. Mean intake was 48.0%E for carbohydrates, and 34.9%E for total fat. Every 5%E decrease in carbohydrate, and every 5%E increase in fat, was associated with 12% (95% CI 0.78–0.99; 〈em〉P 〈/em〉= 〈em〉0.03〈/em〉) and 17% (95% CI 1.02–1.33; 〈em〉P 〈/em〉= 0.02) higher odds of diabetes, respectively. Each two-point increase in LCHF score is related to 8% (95% CI 1.02–1.14; 〈em〉P 〈/em〉= 0.006) higher odds of diabetes, while there was no evidence for association between DRV score and diabetes. Among the participants without diagnosed diabetes (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 3130), every 5%E decrease in carbohydrate was associated with higher %HbA1c by + 0.016% (95% CI 0.004–0.029; 〈em〉P 〈/em〉= 0.012), whereas every 5%E increase in fat was associated with higher  %HbA1c by + 0.029% (95% CI 0.015–0.043; 〈em〉P 〈/em〉〈 0.001). Each two-point increase in LCHF score is related to higher  %HbA1c by + 0.010% (0.1 mmol/mol), while each two-point increase in the DRV score is related to lower  %HbA1c by − 0.023% (0.23 mmol/mol).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Lower carbohydrate and higher fat intakes were associated with higher HbA1c and greater odds of having diabetes. These data do not support low(er) carbohydrate diets for diabetes prevention.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The association of glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) with metabolic syndrome (MetS) is controversial. Therefore, we conducted this first systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of observational studies to quantify these associations.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies up to 1 April 2019. Summary odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by a random-effects model. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019131788).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉We included eight high-quality (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 5) or medium-quality (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 3) cross-sectional studies in the final meta-analysis, comprising 6058 MetS events and 28,998 participants. The summary ORs of MetS for the highest versus lowest categories were 1.23 (95% CI 1.10–1.38, 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0, tau〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 5) for dietary GI, 1.06 (95% CI 0.89–1.25, 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 36.2%, tau〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.0151, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 6) for dietary GL. The summary OR was 1.12 (95% CI 1.00–1.26, 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0, tau〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 3) per 5 GI units, 0.96 (95% CI 0.83–1.10, 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 33.4%, tau〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.0059, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 2) per 20 GL units.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Dietary GI was positively associated with the prevalence of MetS. However, no significant association was found between dietary GL and the prevalence of MetS. Further studies with prospective design are needed to establish potential causal relationship between dietary GI and the MetS.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉Inflammatory processes are involved in chronic diseases. It has been suggested that melatonin reduces inflammation by its radical scavenging properties; however, the results of the previous studies are inconclusive. The objective of the present meta-analysis is to determine the direction and magnitude of melatonin supplementation effect on inflammatory biomarkers.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochran Library, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched up to April 2019. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effect model. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression were also carried out.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Thirteen eligible studies with 22 datasets with total sample size of 749 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Melatonin supplementation significantly decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels [(WMD = − 2.24 pg/ml; 95% CI − 3.45, − 1.03; 〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.001; 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 96.7%, 〈em〉P〈/em〉〈sub〉heterogeneity〈/sub〉 〈 0.001) and (WMD = − 30.25 pg/ml; 95% CI − 41.45, − 19.06; 〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.001, 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 99.0%; 〈em〉P〈/em〉〈sub〉heterogeneity〈/sub〉 〈 0.001)], respectively. The effect of melatonin on CRP levels was marginal (WMD = − 0.45 mg/L; 95% CI − 0.94, 0.03; 〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.06; 〈em〉I〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 96.6%, 〈em〉P〈/em〉〈sub〉heterogeneity〈/sub〉 〈 0.001).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉The results of the present meta-analysis support that melatonin supplementation could be effective on ameliorating of inflammatory mediators.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉One of the major environmental issues of textile industries is the discharge of large quantities of textile effluents, which are source of contamination of water bodies on surface of earth and quality of groundwater. The effluents are toxic, non-biodegradable, carcinogenic and prodigious threats to human and aquatic creatures. Since textile effluents can be treated efficiently and effectively by various advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). Among the various AOPs, cold atmospheric pressure plasma is a promising method among many prominent techniques available to treat the effluents. In this paper, we report about the degradation of simulated effluent, namely Direct Orange-S (DO-S) aqueous solution, using nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet. The plasma treatment of DO-S aqueous solution was carried out as a function of various operating parameters such as potential and treatment time. The change in properties of treated DO-S dye was investigated by means of various analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography, UV–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and determination of total organic content (TOC). The reactive species present in the samples were identified using optical emission spectrometry (OES). OES results confirmed that the formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species during the plasma treatment in the liquid surface was responsible for dye oxidation and degradation. Degradation efficiency, as monitored by color removal efficiency, of 96% could be achieved after 1 h of treatment. Concurrently, the TOC values were found to decrease with plasma treatment, implying that the plasma treatment process enhanced the non-toxicity nature of DO-S aqueous solution. Toxicity of the untreated and plasma-treated dye solution samples was studied using Escherichia coli (〈em〉E. coli〈/em〉) and Staphylococcus (〈em〉S. aureus〈/em〉) organisms, which demonstrated that the plasma-treated dye solution was non-toxic in nature compared with untreated one.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉We investigated the effect of dietary fats on the incorporation of saturated (SAFAs) and monounsaturated dietary fatty acids (MUFAs) into plasma phospholipids and the regulation of the expression of lipid-metabolizing enzymes in the liver.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Mice were fed different diets containing commonly used dietary fats/oils (coconut fat, margarine, fish oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil) for 4 weeks (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 6 per diet group). In a second experiment, mice (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 6 per group) were treated for 7 days with synthetic ligands to activate specific nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) and the hepatic gene expression of CYP26A1 was investigated. Hepatic gene expression of stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1), elongase 6 (ELOVL6), and CYP26A1 was examined using quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR). Fatty acid composition in mouse plasma phospholipids was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉We found significantly reduced hepatic gene expression of SCD1 and ELOVL6 after the fish oil diet compared with the other diets. This resulted in reduced enzyme-specific fatty acid ratios, e.g., 18:1n9/18:0 for SCD1 and 18:0/16:0 and 18:1n7/16:1n7 for ELOVL6 in plasma phospholipids. Furthermore, CYP26A1 a retinoic acid receptor-specific target was revealed as a new player mediating the suppressive effect of fish oil-supplemented diet on SCD1 and ELOVL6 hepatic gene expression.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Plasma levels of MUFAs and SAFAs strongly reflect an altered hepatic fatty acid-metabolizing enzyme expression after supplementation with different dietary fats/oils.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Chromium (Cr) is a common environmental contaminant due to industrial processes and anthropogenic activities such as mining of chrome ore, electroplating, timber treatment, leather tanning, fertilizer and pesticide, etc. Cr exists mainly in both hexavalent [Cr(VI)] and trivalent [Cr(III)] form, being Cr(VI) with non-degradability and potential to be hidden, thereby affecting surrounding environment and being toxic to human health. Therefore, researches on remediation of Cr pollution in the environment have received much attention. Biochar is a low-cost adsorbent, which has been identified as a suitable material for Cr(VI) immobilization and removal from soil and wastewater. This review incorporates existing literature to provide a detailed examination into the (1) Cr chemistry, the source and current status of Cr pollution, and Cr toxicity and health; (2) feedstock and characterization of biochar; (3) processes and mechanisms of immobilization and removal of Cr by biochar, including oxidation–reduction, electrostatic interactions, complexation, ion exchange, and precipitation; (4) applications of biochar for Cr(VI) remediation and the modification of biochar to improve its performance; (5) factors affecting removal efficiency of Cr(VI) with respect to its physico-chemical conditions, including pH, temperature, initial concentration, reaction time, biochar characteristics, and coexisting contaminants. Finally, we identify current issues, challenges, and put forward recommendations as well as proposed directions for future research. This review provides a thorough understanding of using biochar as an emerging biomaterial adsorbent in Cr(VI)-contaminated soils and wastewater.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉In the Apuan Alps (Tuscany, Italy), long-lasting mining activities have favored the mobilization of numerous metals present in sulfosalts originated from low-grade metamorphism mineralization. Such materials, rich in potentially toxic elements such as antimony, arsenic, barium, copper, lead, thallium, tin and zinc, represent the substrate on which soils of different thicknesses have been formed and is currently used for agricultural activities. High concern is particularly arising about the food safety due to traditional horticultural practices, since it is very common in this area to cultivate vegetables in private gardens for both self-consuming and/or local market. In this context, a monitoring survey on both soils and vegetables was performed over the area, with particular attention to 〈em〉Brassica oleracea〈/em〉 L. as traditional food crop, to assess the degree of contamination of the area, the possible translocation to vegetables and the potential human risk linked to vegetable ingestion. This analysis reveals a different degree of soil contamination in the area and a general high human risk linked to cabbage cultivation and ingestion in the whole area.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Wheat is a frequent elicitor of food allergy in childhood. Especially in popular media, the better digestibility and the lower allergenicity of ancient grains are repeatedly postulated. We addressed the question whether ancient wheat-related grains are less allergenic than modern wheat.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Proteins from cultivars of spelt, einkorn, emmer and durum along with durum soft wheat flour, Tritordeum and bread wheat were separated by electrophoresis. Immunoblots were performed with a pool serum of six sera from wheat-sensitized children aged 1–11 years (wheat-specific IgE 22 kU〈sub〉A〈/sub〉/l). As controls, pool serum from five sera atopic patients aged 3–13 years who had no sensitization to wheat (wheat-specific IgE 0.11 kU〈sub〉A〈/sub〉/l) and six sera from non-atopics at the age of 3 months to 5 years (wheat-specific IgE 0.06 kU〈sub〉A〈/sub〉/l) was used. Area under the curve (AUC) in Coomassie-stained gels and immunoblots was determined and related.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Water/salt-soluble protein patterns were very similar among varieties. In einkorn cultivars, one protein band corresponding to an alpha-amylase/trypsin inhibitor (ATI) was absent. Water-insoluble protein fractions differed markedly among varieties and cultivars. IgE bound to a large number of proteins in all protein fractions both in wheat and in the wheat-related ancient grains.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Patients with sensitization to wheat show a significant IgE binding against both modern and ancient grain varieties of the genus Triticum. Therefore, ancient grains do not appear to have a generally reduced risk for wheat allergy sufferers. However, few individuals only sensitized to ATI could benefit from the consumption of einkorn.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉A total of 74 urban topsoil samples were collected from the central area of Shenyang, China. The concentration, distribution, source, and health risk of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were analyzed. The 16 USEPA priority PAHs were detected in all soil samples. The total concentrations of PAHs ranged from 283 to 21,821 ng/g dry weight (dw), with a mean value of 2370 ng/g and median value of 1427 ng/g. The benzo[a]pyrene toxicity equivalent (BaP〈sub〉eq〈/sub〉) concentrations ranged from 6.03 to 2403 ng/g dw, with a mean value of 308 ng/g and median value of 185 ng/g. High molecular weight PAHs were the predominant components. The spatial distribution revealed that soil PAH concentrations within the Two Ring Road were high, but low in the south of Hun River. Compared with other urban soils, the pollution of PAHs in urban soils of Shenyang was at a moderate level, but increased rapidly compared with previous years, especially fluoranthene. Diagnostic ratios of PAHs and positive matrix factorization model all suggested that PAHs in urban soils of Shenyang were dominantly from pyrogenic origins. The health risk assessment indicated that children had the highest total carcinogenic risk, followed by adolescents and adults. The differences between gender groups for the same age group were insignificant. Ingestion was the dominant exposure pathway, followed by dermal contact and inhalation. The total lifetime carcinogenic risks at all sampling sites were lower than the highest acceptable risk (10〈sup〉−4〈/sup〉), and those of Eastern, Central, and Western Shenyang were higher than those of Northern and Southern Shenyang.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Western diet, rich in carbohydrates and fat, is said to be a major factor underlying metabolic syndrome. Interventions with prebiotics, the key modulators of the gut microbiota, have paramount impact on host-associated metabolic disorders. Herein, we investigated the effect of fungus-derived (1,3)/(1,6)-β-glucan, a highly soluble dietary fiber, on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic distress.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Male C57BL/6 J mice were fed with different diet groups (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 11): control diet, HFD, 3 g/kg or 5 g/kg of β-glucan-incorporated HFD. At the end of experimental study period (12th week), body weight, feces weight and fecal moisture content were observed. Further, colonic motility was measured using activated charcoal meal study. Proteins extracted from liver and intestine tissues were subjected to western blot technique. Paraffin-embedded intestinal tissues were sectioned for histochemical [Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue (AB) staining] analysis. Fecal microbiota analysis was performed using MOTHUR bioinformatic software.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉β-glucan consumption exhibited anti-obesity property in mice groups fed with HFD. In addition, β-glucan ameliorated HFD-induced hepatic stress, colonic motility and intestinal atrophy (reduction in colon length, goblet cells, and mucosal layer thickness). Further, β-glucan incorporation shifted bacterial community by increasing butyrate-producing bacteria such as 〈em〉Anaerostipes〈/em〉, 〈em〉Coprobacillus〈/em〉, and 〈em〉Roseburia〈/em〉 and decreasing reportedly obesity-associated bacteria such as 〈em〉Parabacteroides〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Lactococcus.〈/em〉〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Altogether, the outcomes of this present pre-clinical animal study show β-glucan to be a promising therapeutic candidate in the treatment of HFD-induced metabolic distress. Further comprehensive research has to be conducted to brace its clinical relevance, reproducibility and efficacy for aiding human health.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Graphical abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉 〈span〉 〈span〉 〈img alt="" src="https://static-content.springer.com/image/MediaObjects/394_2019_2110_Figa_HTML.png"〉 〈/span〉 〈/span〉 〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Background〈/h3〉 〈p〉A healthy diet and optimal lifestyle choices are amongst the most important actions for the prevention of cardiometabolic diseases. Despite this, it appears difficult to convince consumers to select more nutritious foods. Furthermore, the development and production of healthier foods do not always lead to economic profits for the agro-food sector. Most dietary recommendations for the general population represent a “one-size-fits-all approach” which does not necessarily ensure that everyone has adequate exposure to health-promoting constituents of foods. Indeed, we now know that individuals show a high variability in responses when exposed to specific nutrients, foods, or diets.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉This review aims to highlight our current understanding of inter-individual variability in response to dietary bioactives, based on the integration of findings of the COST Action POSITIVe. We also evaluate opportunities for translation of scientific knowledge on inter-individual variability in response to dietary bioactives, once it becomes available, into practical applications for stakeholders, such as the agro-food industry. The potential impact from such applications will form an important impetus for the food industry to develop and market new high quality and healthy foods for specific groups of consumers in the future. This may contribute to a decrease in the burden of diet-related chronic diseases.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Increased circulating concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) achieved by ingestion of high-fibre diets is associated with anti-inflammatory effects through promotion of FoxP3+ regulatory T(reg) cells in mouse models. This study aimed to determine whether similar increments in blood SCFA levels can be achieved in humans and whether these are associated with similar immune modulatory effects.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In a pilot single-blinded, randomised, controlled cross-over study in ten healthy subjects, the effects were determined of high- (39 g/day) and low-fibre (18 g/day) intake (all food provided) on SCFA (gas chromatography), proportions of Treg cells (flow cytometry) and a panel of cytokines (multiplex methodology) measured in peripheral blood at day 5 of each diet.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Actual fibre intake differed between the diets by 19 [16–21] g/day (〈em〉P〈/em〉〈 0.001). Median [range] total plasma SCFA levels with high-fibre intake were 174.5 [104.8–249.5] µmol/L, which were greater than those associated with low-fibre intake at 59.0 [26.5–79.9] (〈em〉P 〈/em〉〈 0.001). Differences were significantly different for both acetate and propionate. The frequencies of total CD4 T cells and T-regulatory cells, and concentrations of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were not significantly different between the dietary interventions.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Plasma SCFA levels can be modulated by altering dietary fibre consumption in healthy individuals with increments similar to those achieved in murine studies. Five days of diet intervention did not result in changes in regulatory T-cell proportions and cytokine concentrations in peripheral blood, and may require longer duration of dietary change.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Medicinal mineral water, being provided by recognized immunosuppressive properties, results useful for treating many pathological conditions. A well-known source of sulfurous and oligomer medicinal mineral waters is located in Caramanico Terme (Pescara, Italy). Caramanico Terme is a small town in the Majella’s National Park, and its precious and peculiar environment offers a medicinal mineral water (also known as cures or crenotherapy), that since 1576 is administrated to a large number of patients (around 15,000 per year). However, no scientific conclusions on the efficacy of Caramanico’s Terme medicinal mineral water properties are available. Therefore, we have carried out an epidemiological study, enrolling a population of 370 subjects that have received crenotherapy. Such a population has been also compared to a control group of individuals (untreated, 〈em〉N〈/em〉 = 287), never undergone any medicinal mineral water administration. Detailing the geomorphological characteristics of Caramanico Terme environment, we have also analyzed the results of the study that showed that pathology-relapses, as well as related manifestations of symptoms and drug employments, were largely reduced after one or more cycles of crenotherapy. On the other hand, a sub-group of subjects receiving crenotherapy for more than 5 years (〈em〉N〈/em〉 = 166) presented a highly reduced prevalence of a large spectrum of pathologies (cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurological and cancer diseases), with respect to an overlapping population (in terms of age and genders) of untreated subjects. We have also clarified the role of aging and long-term effects of medicinal mineral–water administration. Altogether, these data indicated that the clinical employment of Caramanico’s Terme medicinal mineral water produces short- as well as long-term beneficial effects, both with respect to the amelioration of life quality of patients and in reducing the probability to develop major disabling pathologies (i.e., cardiovascular, cancer and neurological diseases). Therefore, these data will open novel strategies for a larger application of crenotherapy.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉The lead was one of the main elements in the glazes used to colour ceramic tiles. Due to its presence, ceramic sludge has been a source of environmental pollution since this dangerous waste has been often spread into the soil without any measures of pollution control. These contaminated sites are often located close to industrial sites in the peri-urban areas, thus representing a considerable hazard to the human and ecosystem health. In this study, we investigated the lead transfer into the vegetation layer (〈em〉Phragmites australis〈/em〉, 〈em〉Salix alba〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Sambucus nigra〈/em〉) growing naturally along a Pb-contaminated ditch bank. The analysis showed a different lead accumulation among the species and their plant tissues. 〈em〉Salix〈/em〉 trees were not affected by the Pb contamination, possibly because their roots mainly develop below the contaminated deposit. Differently, 〈em〉Sambucus〈/em〉 accumulated high concentrations of lead in all plant tissues and fruits, representing a potential source of biomagnification. 〈em〉Phragmites〈/em〉 accumulated large amounts of lead in the rhizomes and, considering its homogeneous distribution on the site, was used to map the contamination. Analysing the Pb concentration within plant tissues, we got at the same time information about the spread, the history of the contamination and the relative risks. Finally, we discussed the role of natural recolonizing plants for the soil pollution mitigation and their capacity on decreasing soil erosion and water run-off.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Observational studies have suggested that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may decrease Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk. In the present study, we examined this hypothesis using a Mendelian randomization analysis.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉We used summary statistics data for single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with plasma levels of n-6 PUFAs (linoleic acid, arachidonic acid) and n-3 PUFAs (alpha-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid), and the corresponding data for AD from a genome-wide association meta-analysis of 63,926 individuals (21,982 diagnosed AD cases, 41,944 controls).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉None of the genetically predicted PUFAs was significantly associated with AD risk; odds ratios (95% confidence interval) per 1 SD increase in PUFA levels were 0.98 (0.93, 1.03) for linoleic acid, 1.01 (0.98, 1.05) for arachidonic acid, 0.96 (0.88, 1.06) for alpha-linolenic acid, 1.03 (0.93, 1.13) for eicosapentaenoic acid, 1.03 (0.97, 1.09) for docosapentaenoic acid, and 1.01 (0.81, 1.25) for docosahexaenoic acid.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study did not support the hypothesis that PUFAs decrease AD risk.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Metal(loid) contamination of soil, resulting from the mining activities, is a major issue worldwide, due to its negative effects on the environment and health. Therefore, these contaminated soils need to be remediated. One realistic method is the assisted phytostabilization, which aims at establishing a vegetation cover on the soil that will reduce metal(loid) bioavailability and spreading through the prevention of wind erosion and water leaching. In addition, amendments are applied to improve soil conditions and ameliorate plant growth. In this goal, biochar and compost showed good results in terms of amelioration of soil fertility and reduction in lead bioavailability. However, they usually have a negative effect on arsenic. On the contrary, iron sulfate showed capacity to reduce arsenic mobility through interaction with its iron hydroxides. Finally, the choice of the appropriate plant species is crucial for the success of assisted phytostabilization. One good option is to use endemic species, adapted to the metal(loid) stress, with a fast growth and large shoot and root systems. The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate the effects of applying biochar, compost and iron sulfate, alone or combined, to a former mine soil on the soil properties and 〈em〉Agrostis capillaris〈/em〉 growth, and (2) assess the difference between two 〈em〉Agrostis capillaris〈/em〉 ecotypes, an endemic metallicolous ecotype and a non-metallicolous ecotype. Results of the mesocosm experiment showed that amendment application improved soil properties, i.e., reduced soil acidity, increased nutrient availability and lower metal(loid) stress, the best being the combination biochar–compost–iron sulfate. These ameliorations allowed a better plant growth. Finally, the metallicolous ecotype performed better in terms of growth than the non-metallicolous one and could thus be used in an assisted phytostabilization process on the former mine site.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our aim was to estimate the prevalence of folate inadequacy (POFI) according to life stage, socio-economic status, and geographical regions after the mandatory fortification of wheat and maize flour in Brazil.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉This was a population-based study. Data from two non-consecutive food records from the National Dietary Survey/Household Budget Survey 2008–2009 were used to estimate the usual dietary folate intake in µg dietary folate equivalents (DFEs). The National Cancer Institute method was used to account for within-person variance and the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) cut-point method was used to calculate the POFI. The survey included 32,749 individuals, 15,700 males and 17,049 females, over 10 years old. Pregnant women, lactating women, and individuals with unreliable energy intake data were excluded.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Overall POFI was 31.5% and mean dietary folate intake was 411.1 µg DFE. The lowest POFI occurred in the youngest age group of 10–13 years in both sexes, while the highest POFI was observed in the group ≥ 71 years. In women of childbearing age, POFI was around 32%. The lowest income strata had the highest POFI. The most developed regions (South and Southeast) had the lowest POFI compared to less developed regions.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our data show that folate inadequacy is still prevalent in Brazil mainly in low-income groups and less developed regions. Actions need to be taken to ensure that women of childbearing age, who presented a high prevalence of inadequate folate intake, achieve the recommended daily intake of 400 µg DFEs.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 samples were collected at the Wangsheren primary school site in Licheng District of Jinan, China, during 2016. Eleven metals and metalloids including Al, As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb and Se in PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 were measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy. The annual average mass concentration of PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 was found to be 88.7 μg m〈sup〉−3〈/sup〉. The highest PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 concentrations were obtained during the heating seasons of winter and spring. The concentrations of metals and metalloids in PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 were in a descending order of Al, Pb, Mn, As, Se, Cr, Sb, Ni, Cd, Hg and Be. The enrichment factors showed that Pb, Mn, As, Se, Cr, Sb, Ni, Cd, Hg originated from anthropogenic sources. Factor analysis indicated that the main sources of the metals were coal combustion dust, soil dust, metallurgical industry, brake abrasion of vehicles and other mixed sources. Coal combustion dust was the primary source of metal pollution in PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉. Non-carcinogenic risks associated with exposure through the respiratory system were between 6.30 × 10〈sup〉−4〈/sup〉 and 7.62 × 10〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉, which were lower than the safe limit (1). The carcinogenic risks of Cr, As and Cd were 3.17 × 10〈sup〉−5〈/sup〉, 1.52 × 10〈sup〉−5〈/sup〉, 2.22 × 10〈sup〉−6〈/sup〉, respectively, which were higher than the precautionary criterion (10〈sup〉−6〈/sup〉/year). This study indicates that the air pollution of PM〈sub〉2.5〈/sub〉 is of public health concern in Licheng District of Jinan, particularly related to potential carcinogenic metals of As, Cr and Cd. Intervention action is needed to reduce the emission sources of these elements, especially coal combustion in winter heating season.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Critically low skeletal muscle mass and strength, observed in 20% of people with chronic heart failure (CHF), reduces functional capacity, quality of life (QoL) and survival. Protein and essential amino acid (EAA) supplementation could be a viable treatment strategy to prevent declines in muscle strength and performance, and subsequently improve QoL and survival. This systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42018103649) aimed to assess the effect of dietary protein and/or EAA supplementation on muscle strength and performance in people with CHF.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Searches of PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase identified studies that reported changes in strength or muscle performance following protein and/or EAA supplementation in patients with CHF. Following PRISMA guidelines and using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria relating to participants, intervention, control, outcome and study design, two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts and full manuscripts for eligibility. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RCTs) or Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (cohort studies). Data were extracted for analysis using predefined criteria.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Five randomised controlled trials (RCT) and one cohort study met our inclusion criteria. All RCTs had a high risk of bias. The methodological quality of the cohort study was moderate. Heterogeneity of extracted data prevented meta-analyses, qualitative synthesis was therefore performed. Data from 167 patients with CHF suggest that protein and/or EAA supplementation does not improve strength, but may increase six-minute walk test distance, muscle mass and QoL.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉The limited quality of the studies makes firm conclusions difficult, however protein and/or EAA supplementation may improve important outcome measures related to sarcopenia. High-quality randomised controlled studies are needed.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The objective of the study was to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of 〈em〉Lactobacillus rhamnosus〈/em〉 LS-8 and 〈em〉Lactobacillus crustorum〈/em〉 MN047, and illustrate the potential functional mechanism about the alleviation of high fat and high fructose diet (HFFD) induced obesity and related metabolic abnormalities.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉C57BL/6J mice were subjected to a standard or HFFD with or without supplementation of 〈em〉L. rhamnosus〈/em〉 LS-8 and 〈em〉L. crustorum〈/em〉 MN047 for 10 weeks. Obesity related metabolic indices including glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, serum lipid, liver function, hormones and inflammatory cytokines were assessed by standard protocols. For the monitoring of inflammatory response and lipid metabolism, transcriptional levels were profiled in liver and/or adipose tissues. Furthermore, gut microbiota composition analyses in the fecal samples were performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and gut microbial metabolites, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), were also tested for the assessment of the relationship between gut microbiota variation and inflammatory response.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Administration with 〈em〉L. rhamnosus〈/em〉 LS-8 and 〈em〉L. crustorum〈/em〉 MN047 significantly mitigated body weight gain and insulin resistance, and inflammatory response (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 levels in serum and corresponding mRNA levels in adipose tissues) was significantly inhibited in these two strains-treated mice. Moreover, 〈em〉L. rhamnosus 〈/em〉LS-8 and 〈em〉L. crustorum〈/em〉 MN047 could partially normalized mRNA expression levels involved in lipid metabolism including 〈em〉Pparγ〈/em〉, 〈em〉Srebp〈/em〉-〈em〉1c〈/em〉, 〈em〉CD36〈/em〉, 〈em〉Fabp2〈/em〉 and 〈em〉FAS〈/em〉. In addition, these two strains manipulated gut microbiota by decreasing the abundance of 〈em〉Bacteroides〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Desulfovibrio〈/em〉 and increasing that of 〈em〉Lactobacillus〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Bifidobacterium〈/em〉, which in turn raised the levels of feces SCFAs and lowered the levels of circulating LPS.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉These results indicated that 〈em〉L. rhamnosus〈/em〉 LS-8 and 〈em〉L. crustorum〈/em〉 MN047 supplementation possessed the anti-obesity effect on the HFFD fed mice by alleviating inflammatory response and regulating gut microbiota, which further suggested that these two probiotics can be considered as an alternative dietary supplement in combination with the preventive and therapeutic strategies against obesity and related complications.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Graphic abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉 〈span〉 〈span〉 〈img alt="" src="https://static-content.springer.com/image/MediaObjects/394_2019_2117_Figa_HTML.png"〉 〈/span〉 〈/span〉 〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Along with iron and steel production, large amount of slag is generated. Proper management on the iron- and steelmaking slag is highly demanded due to the high cost of direct disposal of the slag to landfill, which is the most adopted management approach. In this article, the potential application of iron- and steelmaking slag has been reviewed, which included the slag utilization in construction as cement and sand, in water, soil, and gas treatment, as well as in value material recovery. In addition, the challenge and required effort to be made in iron- and steelmaking slag management have been discussed. 〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu) is a common health issue among farming communities in the dry zone of Sri Lanka where groundwater fluoride is known to be higher than recommended levels. Excessive environmental ingestion of fluoride is widely considered as a possible factor for the onset of CKDu. This study was carried out to evaluate the serum and urine fluoride levels in biopsy-proven, non-dialysis CKDu patients. Control subjects were selected from the same area without any deteriorated kidney functions. Serum and urine fluoride levels were determined by ion-selective electrode method. Higher content of serum and urine fluoride levels were observed in patients with chronic renal failures. In CKDu cases, the serum fluoride concentrations ranged between 0.47 and 9.58 mg/L (mean 1.39 ± 1.1 mg/L), while urine levels were varied between 0.45 and 6.92 mg/L (mean 1.53 ± 0.8 mg/L). In patients, urine fluoride levels showed a significant difference with the CKDu stage; however, no difference was obtained between genders and age. In endemic controls, serum and urine fluoride levels ranged between 0.51 and 1.92 mg/L (mean = 1.07 ± 0.3 mg/L) and 0.36 and 3.80 mg/L (mean = 1.26 ± 0.6 mg/L), respectively. Significantly higher fluoride in serum and urine was noted in CKDu patients compared to endemic control groups. Higher fluoride exposure via drinking water is possibly the reason for higher fluoride in serum, while excessive urinary excretion would be due to deterioration of the kidney, suggesting a possible nephrotoxic role of environmental fluoride exposure.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Application of intelligent formulation design has the ability to address the poor bioavailability and improve the fasted state bioavailability of fish oils. In this study we assessed the ability of a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS), AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉, as an additive to enhance the oral absorption of Omega-3 ethyl esters (EE) in healthy subjects under low-fat diet conditions.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) EE were formulated with AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉. A single dose (680 mg dose of oil containing 272 mg of EPA EE and 204 mg of DHA EE), randomized, double-blind, study measured uptake of EPA and DHA over 24 h in healthy adults. Participants were randomized into two groups, receiving either the SEDDS AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉 fish oil formulation or the unformulated fish oil EE as control.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉 fish oil EE formulation demonstrated instant and complete emulsification on addition to water to produce an emulsion with an average diameter of 43 μm, compared to the oil alone which did not emulsify. The study revealed a significant difference in absorption (〈em〉C〈/em〉〈sub〉max〈/sub〉 and AUC〈sub〉0–24h〈/sub〉) between the AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉 group and the control group. The AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉 group was capable of increasing maximum plasma concentrations and absorption (AUC〈sub〉0–24h〈/sub〉) of total Omega-3 (EPA + DHA) 3.7- and 7.1-fold, respectively, compared to the control.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Formulating Omega-3 EE with a SEDSS concentrate (AquaCelle〈sup〉®〈/sup〉) demonstrated a significant improvement in the oral absorption of Omega-3 fatty acids without requiring a high-fat meal.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Graphic abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉 〈span〉 〈span〉 〈img alt="" src="https://static-content.springer.com/image/MediaObjects/394_2019_2118_Figa_HTML.png"〉 〈/span〉 〈/span〉 〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉We determined the association of total sugar intake with body weight and fat mass in children on an energy-equivalent basis and potential changes in the association from 2 to 8 years of age.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Data were available from the Childhood Obesity Project Trial initiated in 2002. Sugar intake was measured by 3-day weighed food protocols at 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 years of age. Body mass index (BMI) and fat mass index (FMI) were available at the same time points. To investigate the association of sugar intake with anthropometrics over time, linear mixed models were applied. Odds ratios for having a high BMI or FMI (above one standard deviation) were estimated by logistic random-effects models. To control for total energy intake, the residual method was chosen and models were additionally adjusted for total energy intake.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Data were available for 809 children with in total 2846 observations. In an isocaloric model, an increase of 100 kcal from sugar per day was significantly associated with lower zBMI (− 0.033; 95% CI −0.061, − 0.005) and zFMI (− 0.050; 95% CI − 0.089, − 0.011). In addition, a 100 kcal higher sugar intake was related to lower odds of having a high zBMI (OR 0.743; 95% CI 0.611, 0.903).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study provides no indication that increased total sugar intake positively affects BMI on an energy-equivalent basis. Whether the negative association of sugar is due to physiological effects or points more to macronutrient preferences or a reporting bias (lower sugar intake) in children with higher BMI can be debated.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Clinical trial registry〈/h3〉 〈p〉ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00338689; Registered: June 19, 2006. URL: 〈a href="http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00338689?term=NCT00338689&rank=1"〉http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00338689?term=NCT00338689&rank=1〈/a〉.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study evaluates indoor air concentrations of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉, NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉, and O〈sub〉3〈/sub〉 and their relationship to other indoor environmental factors in facilities with occupants susceptible to air contaminants, such as hospitals, senior specialized hospitals, elderly care facilities, and postnatal care centers. Indoor air samples were collected from 82 indoor facilities in South Korea and organized by region. Spearman’s correlation and Kruskal–Wallis analyses were employed to examine the relationship among and differences between contaminants in the indoor facilities and indoor/outdoor differences of NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 and O〈sub〉3〈/sub〉 concentrations. Significant correlations were found between CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 and NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations (〈em〉r〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.176, 〈em〉p 〈/em〉〈 0.01), as well as NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 and O〈sub〉3〈/sub〉 concentrations (〈em〉r〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = − 0.289, 〈em〉p 〈/em〉〈 0.0001). The indoor/outdoor concentration ratios in the indoor facilities were 0.73 for NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 and 0.25 for O〈sub〉3〈/sub〉. CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 and NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 displayed the highest mean concentrations during spring, while O〈sub〉3〈/sub〉 displayed the highest and lowest mean concentrations during fall and summer, respectively. The calculated hazard quotient (HQ) for NO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 was higher than the acceptable level of 1 in postnatal care centers, thus posing a health risk for children. Study results indicate that efficient ventilation is required to reduce indoor contaminants in multiple healthcare facilities. This study provides a novel approach toward health risk assessment for indoor facilities with susceptible occupants on a large geographical scale.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The rate of neural tube defects (NTDs) in Europe has remained similar since the 1990s despite folic acid supplement recommendations (400 µg/day) for women of childbearing age. Mandatory folic acid fortification of staple foods has proved effective for reducing the prevalence of NTDs in over 80 countries. This study estimated the impact of addition of folic acid to bread or flour in the Republic of Ireland on reducing the risk of occurrence of NTD-affected pregnancies and the possible risk of masking (undiagnosed) vitamin B〈sub〉12〈/sub〉 deficiency in older adults.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Analyses were based on the Irish National Adult Nutrition Survey (2008–2010). Folic acid fortification was modelled using DaDiet© software. Estimates were made of the increase in average daily folic acid intake in women (18–50 years) and the risk of exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1000 µg for folic acid in adults over 50 years of age.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The fortification scenarios examined would reduce the risk of NTD-affected pregnancies by 8–32%, corresponding to an increase of 39–152 μg in the mean daily folic acid intake of WCBA. The risk of masking anaemia associated with vitamin B〈sub〉12〈/sub〉 deficiency in older adults would be negligible as the probability of exceeding the UL for folic acid, even by a small amount, is very low (≤ 0.2%).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉These levels of addition of folic acid to bread or flour would effectively reduce the risk of NTDs while allowing safe consumption of folic acid at current levels from other fortified foods and supplements.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Biochar (BC) is a porous, carbonaceous material produced by slow pyrolysis of biomass under oxygen-limited conditions. BC production has been attracting research interest because it modifies soil physicochemical characteristics and improves the growth of plants in problem soils. These benefits may be best actualized for soils contaminated by metals, where remediation is hampered by metal toxicity to both plants and soil microbial communities. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of the addition of chicken manure biochar (CMB), oat hull biochar (OHB), or pine bark biochar (PBB) on copper (Cu) bioavailability in a Cu-contaminated soil, the effectiveness of these BCs promoting plant growth, and its effects on soil microbial communities supporting these plants. A sandy soil (338 mg Cu kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) was amended with CMB, OHB, and PBB, and the metallophyte 〈em〉Oenothera picensis〈/em〉 or the agricultural species 〈em〉Solanum lycopersicum〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Lolium perenne〈/em〉 were grown for 3 months. The BCs produced an increase in soil pH, reduced the exchangeable Cu, and increased Cu bound to organic matter and residual fractions. All BCs enhanced the quality of contaminated soil and increased the plant biomass production, notably for 〈em〉S. lycopersicum〈/em〉, which grew until 12 times more than plants in non-amended soil. While BC addition reduced the concentration of Cu in soil pore water, the amendment did not reduce the concentrations of Cu in shoot tissues. BC additions also stimulated soil microorganisms, increasing basal respiration and DHA activity and modifying microbial communities, especially in soils supporting 〈em〉L. perenne〈/em〉. These results indicate that BCs represent an effective tool to remediate Cu-contaminated sandy soils.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of creatine supplementation on muscle wasting in Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 10/group): control (C), tumor bearing (T), and tumor bearing supplemented with creatine (TCr). Creatine was provided in drinking water for a total of 21 days. After 11 days of supplementation, tumor cells were implanted subcutaneously into T and TCr groups. The animals’ weight, food and water intake were evaluated along the experimental protocol. After 10 days of tumor implantation (21 total), animals were euthanized for inflammatory state and skeletal muscle cross-sectional area measurements. Skeletal muscle components of ubiquitin–proteasome pathways were also evaluated using real-time PCR and immunoblotting.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The results showed that creatine supplementation protected tumor-bearing rats against body weight loss and skeletal muscle atrophy. Creatine intake promoted lower levels of plasma TNF-α and IL-6 and smaller spleen morphology changes such as reduced size of white pulp and lymphoid follicle compared to tumor-bearing rats. In addition, creatine prevented increased levels of skeletal muscle Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1, key regulators of muscle atrophy.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Creatine supplementation prevents skeletal muscle atrophy by attenuating tumor-induced pro-inflammatory environment, a condition that minimizes Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1-dependent proteolysis.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Even though a growing number of reports indicated favorable health effects with fish consumption, kinds of hazardous substances in fish were detected in fish and to be exceeded advisory limitation. Benefit–risk assessment of commonly consumed fish is urgently needed. We conducted fish consumption survey and fish sampling in the coast of South China Sea to assess benefit–risk effect of commonly consumed fish species. For local residents, weekly methyl mercury (MeHg) exposures from commonly consumed fish species ranged from 0.12 to 2.11 μg/kg bw. Apart from 〈em〉Muraenesox cinereus〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Acanthopagrus latus〈/em〉, the rest of 92% (23/25) fish species were at low risk of MeHg exposure. Daily docosahexaenoic acid intakes via consuming specific fish were between 42.18 and 1687.04 mg/day. A total of 72% (18/25) fish species could provide 200 mg/day of DNA for local residents. Benefit–risk assessment assuming intelligence quotient (IQ) score model showed net IQ point gains between 1.53 and 5.65 points with consuming various fish species, indicative of large distinction of health benefit from various fish species. This study suggests commonly consumed fish species from China South Sea could bring much more positive effect than negative effect. Species-specific fish should be considered when providing recommendations of fish consumption. 〈em〉Muraenesox cinereus〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Acanthopagrus latus〈/em〉 should be minded with risk of MeHg exposure in taking large amounts.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉To explore the associations between type of milk feeding (the “nutrients”) and mode of breast milk feeding (the “nursing”) with child cognition.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Healthy children from the GUSTO (Growing Up in Singapore Toward healthy Outcomes) cohort participated in repeated neurodevelopmental assessments between 6 and 54 months. For “nutrients”, we compared children exclusively bottle-fed according to type of milk received: formula only (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 296) vs some/all breast milk (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 73). For “nursing”, we included only children who were fully fed breast milk, comparing those fed directly at the breast (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 59) vs those fed partially/completely by bottle (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 63).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Compared to infants fed formula only, those who were bottle-fed breast milk demonstrated significantly better cognitive performance on both the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (Third Edition) at 2 years [adjusted mean difference (95% CI) 1.36 (0.32, 2.40)], and on the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (Second Edition) at 4.5 years [7.59 (1.20, 13.99)]. Children bottle-fed breast milk also demonstrated better gross motor skills at 2 years than those fed formula [1.60 (0.09, 3.10)]. Among infants fully fed breast milk, those fed directly at the breast scored higher on several memory tasks compared to children bottle-fed breast milk, including the deferred imitation task at 6 months [0.67 (0.02, 1.32)] and relational binding tasks at 6 [0.41 (0.07, 0.74)], 41 [0.67 (0.04, 1.29)] and 54 [0.12 (0.01, 0.22)] months.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our findings suggest that nutrients in breast milk may improve general child cognition, while nursing infants directly at the breast may influence memory.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Biochar can be widely used to reduce the bioavailability of heavy metals in contaminated soil because of its adsorption capacity. But there are few studies about the effects of biochar on cadmium uptake by plants in soil contaminated with cadmium (Cd). Therefore, an incubation experiment was used to investigate the effects of rice straw biochar (RSBC) and coconut shell biochar (CSBC) on Cd immobilization in contaminated soil and, subsequently, Cd uptake by 〈em〉Lolium perenne〈/em〉. The results showed that the microbial counts and soil enzyme activities were significantly increased by biochar in Cd-contaminated soil, which were consistent with the decrease of the bioavailability of Cd by biochar. HOAc-extractable Cd in soil decreased by 11.3–22.6% in treatments with 5% RSBC and by 7.2–17.1% in treatments with 5% CSBC, respectively, compared to controls. The content of available Cd in biochar treatments was significantly lower than in controls, and these differences were more obvious in treatment groups with 5% biochar. The Cd concentration in 〈em〉L〈/em〉. 〈em〉perenne〈/em〉 reduced by 4.47–26.13% with biochar. However, the biomass of 〈em〉L〈/em〉. 〈em〉perenne〈/em〉 increased by 1.35–2.38 times after adding biochar amendments. So, Cd uptake by whole 〈em〉L〈/em〉. 〈em〉perenne〈/em〉 was augmented by RSBC and CSBC. Accordingly, this work suggests that RSBC and CSBC have the potential to be used as a useful aided phytoremediation technology in Cd-contaminated soil.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu) has emerged as a serious health issue in Sri Lanka. The disease has been recorded in the North Central Province of the country. While studies have elicited many hypotheses concerning the pathogenicity of CKDu, none adequately explains the cause of CKDu and the measures needed to minimise its occurrence. Nephrotoxic heavy metal (oid)s such as cadmium, arsenic, lead, and chromium are present in biological samples of people from endemic areas. This review appraises evidence on the effects of long-term exposure to low concentration of nephrotoxic heavy metals, which could be the principal cause of CKDu. Although a considerable variation exists in metal concentrations in patients’ blood and urine, higher levels of heavy metals were consistently observed in affected areas. This review finds that the populations in the endemic areas are exposed to heavy metal (oid)s at low concentrations, which are considered as safe levels; nevertheless, it influences the incidence of CKDu. Recent global studies on chronic kidney disease (CKD) revealed a low concentration of heavy metals in diseased patients. Research findings indicated that CKDu patients in Sri Lanka demonstrated similar blood levels of Cd, Pb, and higher concentrations of Cr than that have been reported globally. Further studies on the influence of combinations of nephrotoxic heavy metals at low concentrations on reduced glomerular filtration rate and other renal biomarkers could explain CKDu pathogenicity.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉With a growing awareness of environmental protection, the dust pollution caused by automobile foundry work has become a serious and urgent problem. This study aimed to explore contamination levels and health effects of automobile foundry dust. A total of 276 dust samples from six types of work in an automobile foundry factory were collected and analysed using the filter membrane method. Probabilistic risk assessment model was developed for evaluating the health risk of foundry dust on workers. The health risk and its influencing factors among workers were then assessed by applying the Monte Carlo method to identify the most significant parameters. Health damage assessment was conducted to translate health risk into disability-adjusted life year (DALY). The results revealed that the mean concentration of dust on six types of work ranged from 1.67 to 5.40 mg/m〈sup〉3〈/sup〉. The highest health risks to be come from melting, cast shakeout and finishing, followed by pouring, sand preparation, moulding and core-making. The probability of the risk exceeding 10〈sup〉−6〈/sup〉 was approximately 85%, 90%, 90%, 75%, 70% and 45%, respectively. The sensitivity analysis indicated that average time, exposure duration, inhalation rate and dust concentration (C) made great contribution to dust health risk. Workers exposed to cast shakeout and finishing had the largest DALY of 48.64a. These results can further help managers to fully understand the dust risks on various types of work in the automobile foundry factories and provide scientific basis for the management and decision-making related to health damage assessment.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉The contamination of the Sonora River with 40,000 m〈sup〉3〈/sup〉 of toxic leachate released from a copper mine on August 6, 2014, was considered the worst environmental disaster of the mining industry in Mexico, exceeding safety levels in the concentrations of heavy metals and arsenic. To explore the potential association of the toxic release with subfecundity, by comparing time to pregnancy (TTP) of women with different levels of exposure at municipalities located along the Sonora River watershed, just 35 km south of the Arizona–Mexico border. Data from 235 pregnancies were included in a retrospective cohort study. Exposure was measured whether pregnancy occurred before or after the disaster and included a non-exposed community outside the watershed. Pregnancies were also compared between communities according to the concentration-level gradient of water pollutants found in the river. Fecundability odds ratios (fORs) were calculated using discrete time analogue of Cox’s proportional hazard models. Multiple analysis included all pregnancies with TTP of no more than 12 months, only first-time pregnancy, or excluding women with TTP = 1. The probability for pregnancy decreased after the disaster (fOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31, 0.97), when the residency was located mid-or-downstream the watershed (fOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.15, 0.91), when reported chicken consumption, when mining was the father’s occupation, and when surface water was reported to be used for crop irrigation and for animal consumption. There was a decrease in fecundity on women exposed to the contaminated river. There is a need for more studies to prove these findings and to broaden the knowledge of other possible adverse health effects associated with this environmental disaster.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉No study has summarized earlier findings on the effect of probiotic supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to systematically review the available placebo-controlled clinical trials about the effect of probiotic supplementation on several inflammatory biomarkers in adults.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Relevant papers published up to March 2018 were searched up through PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, using following suitable keywords. Clinical trials that examined the effect of probiotic supplementation on inflammation in adults were included.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Overall, 42 randomized clinical trials (1138 participants in intervention and 1120 participants in control groups) were included. Combining findings from included studies, we found a significant reduction in serum hs-CRP [standardized mean difference (SMD) − 0.46; 95% CI − 0.73, − 0.19], TNF-a (− 0.21; − 0.34, − 0.08), IL-6 (− 0.37; − 0.51, − 0.24), IL-12 (− 0.47; − 0.67, − 0.27), and IL-4 concentrations (− 0.48; − 0.76, − 0.20) after probiotic supplementation. Pooling effect sizes from 11 studies with 12 effect sizes, a significant increase in IL-10 concentrations was seen (0.21; 0.04, 0.38). We failed to find a significant effect of probiotic supplementation on serum IL-1B (− 0.17; − 0.37, 0.02), IL-8 (− 0.01; − 0.30, 0.28), and IFN-g (− 0.08; − 0.31, 0.15) and IL-17 concentrations (0.06; − 0.34, 0.46).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Probiotic supplementation significantly reduced serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines including, hs-CRP, TNF-a, IL-6, IL-12, and IL-4, but it did not influence IL-1B, IL-8, IFN-g, and IL-17 concentrations. A significant increase in serum concentrations of IL-10, as a anti-inflammatory cytokine was also documented after probiotic supplementation.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Iodine is an essential micronutrient for human health; phytofortification is a means of improving humans’ nutritional iodine status. However, knowledge of iodine uptake and translocation in plants remains limited. In this paper, plant uptake mechanisms were assessed in short-term experiments (24 h) using labelled radioisotopes; the speciation of iodine present in apoplastic and symplastic root solutions was determined by (HPLC)-ICP-QQQ-MS. Iodine storage was investigated in spinach (〈em〉Spinacia oleracea〈/em〉 L.) treated with I〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 and IO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉. Finally, translocation through the phloem to younger leaves was also investigated using a radioiodine (〈sup〉129〈/sup〉I〈sup〉−〈/sup〉) label. During uptake, spinach roots demonstrated the ability to reduce IO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 to I〈sup〉−〈/sup〉. Once absorbed, iodine was present as org-I or I〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 with significantly greater concentrations in the apoplast than the symplast. Plants were shown to absorb similar concentrations of iodine applied as I〈sup〉−〈/sup〉 or IO〈sub〉3〈/sub〉〈sup〉−〈/sup〉, via the roots, grown in an inert growth substrate. We found that whilst leaves were capable of absorbing radioactively labelled iodine applied to a single leaf, less than 2% was transferred through the phloem to younger leaves. In this paper, we show that iodine uptake is predominantly passive (approximately two-thirds of total uptake); however, I〈sup〉-〈/sup〉 can be absorbed actively through the symplast. Spinach leaves can absorb iodine via foliar fertilisation, but translocation is severely limited. As such, foliar application is unlikely to significantly increase the iodine content, via phloem translocation, of fruits, grains or tubers.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Sediment sequences in Lake Qinghai spanning the past 100 years were explored to assess the effects of changes in local land desertification, dust input and agriculture on sediment deposition in different parts of Lake Qinghai. Three short sediment cores (QH01, QH02, QH07) were collected from the main lake and one sediment core (Z04) from a sublake (Lake Gahai) of Lake Qinghai, China, during 2012 and 2013. The concentrations of Fe, Mn, Al, Rb, Ti, Ca, and Sr were analysed to determine the effects of historical and regional anthropogenic activities in the Lake Qinghai catchment from 1910 to 2010. The elemental concentrations in the sediment cores ranged from 1.85 to 2.79% for Fe, 397 to 608 μg/g for Mn, 3.04 to 5.64% for Al, 13.5 to 19.7 μg/g for Rb, 0.171 to 0.268% for Ti, 9.43 to 13.9% for Ca, 652 to 1020 μg/g for Sr, and 0.049 to 0.075% for P. Good correlations were found between the concentrations of Fe, Mn, Al, and Rb, and the Ti/Al ratios in the sediments suggest that these elements share a similar source. The enrichment factors (EFs) of Ti [EF(Ti)] and P [EF(P)] in each core were utilized to reflect variations in anthropogenic activities from 1950 to 2010. EF(Ti) ranged from 1 to 1.17 in QH01 and QH02, reflecting the variation of land desertification areas in the Buha River catchment from 1950 to 2010. The EF(Ti) showed positive linear correlations with the variation in cropland area in Gangcha County, suggesting that agricultural activity in the Quanji River and Shaliu River catchments was enhanced from 1950 to 2010. The sediment records showed similar biogeochemical changes in most lakes and bays in China, indicating that the intensity of changes in anthropogenic activities was caused by national policy enforcement from the 1950s to 2010. EF(Ti) can serve as a tracer for anthropogenic activities in Lake Qinghai, with the anthropogenic activities in different parts of the Lake Qinghai catchment represented in the homologous sediments from parts of Lake Qinghai over the past 100 years. The variation of EF(P) increased from 1 to 1.55 from deep layer to upper layer in all sediment cores, reflecting the increased fertilizer input and tourism activity from 1980 to 2010, a period during which the lake was evolved into a eutrophic lake.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Evidence for the association between chocolate intake and risk of chronic diseases is inconclusive. Therefore, we aimed to synthesize and evaluate the credibility of evidence on the dose-response association between chocolate consumption with risk of all-cause mortality, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, heart failure (HF), type 2 diabetes (T2D), colorectal cancer (CRC), and hypertension.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Prospective studies were searched until July 2018 in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Random-effects meta-analyses comparing highest versus lowest intake categories, linear, and non-linear dose-response analyses were conducted. The credibility of evidence was evaluated with the NutriGrade scoring-system.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Overall, 27 investigations were identified (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 2 for all-cause mortality, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 9 for CHD, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 8 for stroke, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 6 for HF, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 6 for T2D, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 2 for hypertension and CRC, respectively). No associations with HF (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.94, 1.04) and T2D (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88, 1.01) per each 10 g/day increase in chocolate intake were observed in the linear dose-response meta-analyses. However, a small inverse association for each 10 g/daily increase could be shown for the risk of CHD (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93, 0.99), and stroke (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82, 0.98). The credibility of evidence was rated either very low (all-cause mortality, HF, T2D, CRC or hypertension) or low (CHD, stroke).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Chocolate consumption is not related to risk for several chronic diseases, but could have a small inverse association with CHD and stroke. Our findings are limited by very low or low credibility of evidence, highlighting important uncertainty for chocolate–disease associations.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Dietary biomarkers allow the accurate and objective determination of the dietary intake of humans and can thus be valuable for investigating the relation between consumption of foods and biochemical as well as physiological responses. The objective of this study was the identification of potential urinary biomarkers for consumption of tomato juice.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In the course of a dietary intervention study, the human urine metabolome of a study cohort was compared between a tomato-free diet and after intake of tomato juice by application of an LC-HRMS-based metabolomics approach. The data acquisition was achieved using an orbitrap mass spectrometer, followed by multistage data processing and univariate as well as multivariate statistical analysis to identify discriminating features.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Statistical analysis revealed several unique features detectable after tomato juice intake. The most discriminating markers were putatively identified as hydroxylated and sulfonated metabolites of esculeogenin B, aglycone of the steroidal glycoalkaloid esculeoside B recently found in tomato juice. Furthermore, the β-carboline alkaloids tangutorid E and F and glucuronidated derivatives thereof were identified in urine.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Steroidal glycoalkaloids in tomato juice are cleaved after ingestion, and hydroxylated and sulfonated metabolites of their aglycones might serve as urinary biomarkers for tomato juice intake. Similarly, β-carboline alkaloids and glucuronidated derivatives were identified as potential urinary biomarkers. Both the aglycones of the steroidal alkaloids and the β-carboline alkaloids might exhibit biological activities worth investigating.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Curcumin has shown to exert a positive impact on human glucose metabolism, even if its bioavailability is usually very low. The present study aimed to explore the effect of phosphatidylserine- and piperine-containing curcumin phytosomes on a large number of metabolic parameters related to insulin resistance, in the context of a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial involving 80 overweight subjects with suboptimal fasting plasma glucose.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Subjects were randomized to be treated with indistinguishable tablets (2 per day, to be taken after dinner) containing 800 mg phytosomal curcumin (Curserin®: 200 mg curcumin, 120 mg phosphatidylserine, 480 mg phosphatidylcholine and 8 mg piperine from 〈em〉Piper nigrum〈/em〉 L. dry extract) for 8 weeks.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉After 56-day treatment, the curcumin-treated group experienced a significant improvement in fasting plasma insulin (FPI), HOMA index, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides (TG), HDL-C, liver transaminases, gamma-GT, index of liver steatosis and serum cortisol compared to the baseline. FPI, TG, liver transaminases, fatty liver index and serum cortisol level also significantly improved compared with the placebo-treated group. Compared to the baseline, at the end of the study placebo group experienced an improvement only in FPG and TG.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉In conclusion, the present trial shows that supplementation with a phytosomal preparation of curcumin containing phosphatidylserine and piperine could improve glycemic factors, hepatic function and serum cortisol levels in subjects with overweight and impaired fasting glucose.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Recent evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiota plays a critical role in the treatment of obesity and other metabolic dysfunctions. Ginger (〈em〉Zingiber officinale〈/em〉 Roscoe), one of the most commonly used spices and dietary supplements, has been shown to exert beneficial effects against obesity and related disorders. However, to date, the mechanisms linking these effects to the gut microbiota remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the gut microbiota and the metabolic adaptations resulting from ginger supplementation in mice.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Four groups of mice were fed a normal chow diet (NCD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) with or without ginger supplementation for 16 weeks. Lipid profiles, proinflammatory cytokines, glucose tolerance, microbiota composition and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations were analyzed at the end of the experiment. In addition, microbiota-depleted mice were transplanted with the fecal microbiota of mice fed a HFD or mice fed a HFD along with ginger supplementation. Glucose tolerance and microbiota composition were assessed after a 8-week fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉We observed marked decreases in body weight, liver steatosis, and low-grade inflammation as well as amelioration of insulin resistance in the HFD-fed mice treated with ginger. Furthermore, ginger supplementation modulated the gut microbiota composition and increased species belonging to the 〈em〉Bifidobacterium〈/em〉 genus and SCFA-producing bacteria (〈em〉Alloprevotella〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Allobaculum〈/em〉), along with increases in fecal SCFA concentrations. The FMT experiment showed anti-obesity and microbiota-modulating effects similar to those observed in the oral ginger-feeding experiment.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study suggests that modulation of the gut microbiota as a result of ginger supplementation has a therapeutic effect on obesity in mice.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉In recent years, acid rain had a serious negative impact on the leaching behavior of industrial waste residue. Researches were mainly focused on the environmental hazards of heavy metal in the leachate, but ignored the effects of heavy metal speciation on the stability of waste residue in the subsequent stabilization process. In this study, the unstable calcium–arsenic compounds in the arsenic calcium residue were firstly removed by leaching process; subsequently, the crystallization agent was added to treat the remaining calcium–arsenic mixture. The results of the leaching process demonstrated that the decrease in particle size and pH value directly affected the increase in the cumulative leaching amount of arsenic, and the cumulative leaching ratio reached 1.55%. In addition, the concentration of arsenic decreased from 3583 to 49.1 mg L〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉. After the crystallization process, the arsenic concentration was lower than the limit value of 〈em〉Identification Standards for Hazardous Wastes〈/em〉 (〈em〉GB 5085.3〈/em〉-〈em〉2007〈/em〉). The SEM analysis showed the bulk structures, and XRD pattern confirmed that they were the stable compounds. Moreover, the result of XRD and SEM illustrated that acid concentration, chloride ions and sulfate ions were contributed to the transformation and growth of stable calcium arsenate compounds. Therefore, effective control of the acidity of acid rain, the type of anions in acid rain, and the particle size of residues would contribute to adjusting the arsenic speciation to be more stable. The leaching-crystallization process was of great significance to improve the stability of the arsenic-containing residue.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Two wetland plant-sediment microbial fuel cell systems (PSM1 and PSM2) and one wetland sediment microbial fuel cell system (SM) were constructed to investigate their electricity production performance and the simultaneous migration and transformation of arsenic and heavy metals in sediment and overlying water, arsenic and heavy metals uptake by plants. The bioelectricity generation was monitored for 175 days, and sediment samples were collected at three time points (64, 125 and 200 days) for the analysis. The results showed that plants improved the efficiency of the electricity production by the fuel cell system. The average output voltage was: PSM1 (0.32 V) 〉 PSM2 (0.28 V) 〉 SM (0.24 V)(〈em〉P〈/em〉 ≤ 0.05).The electricity production of the electrodes and the introduction of plants affected the mobility and transformation of As, Zn and Cd in the sediment, which contributed to their stability in the sediment and reduced the release of these metals into the overlying water column. The bioelectricity production process affected the bioavailability of arsenic and heavy metals in the sediment and attenuated metal uptake by plants, which indicated the potential for remediation of arsenic and heavy metals pollution in sediment.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Low vitamin D status is prevalent worldwide. We aim to investigate the effect of vitamin D fortification on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration in women of Danish and Pakistani origin at risk of vitamin D deficiency.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉A 12-week randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled intervention trial during winter time, designed to provide 20 µg vitamin D〈sub〉3〈/sub〉/day through fortified yoghurt, cheese, eggs and crisp bread, and assess the change in serum 25(OH)D. Participants were 143 women of Danish and Pakistani origin, living in Denmark, randomized into four groups, stratified by ethnicity.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Mean (SD) baseline 25(OH)D concentrations among women of Danish and Pakistani origin were 49.6 (18) and 46.9 (22) nmol/L, respectively (〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.4). While 9% of Danish women had 25(OH)D 〈 30 nmol/L, the prevalence among women of Pakistani origin was 24%. Median (IQR) vitamin D intake among Danish and Pakistani women at endpoint was 32.0 (27.0, 34.4) µg/day and 24.2 (19.2, 30.8) µg/day, respectively. Endpoint serum 25(OH)D increased in fortified groups to 77.8 (14) nmol/L among Danish women and 54.7 (18) nmol/L among women of Pakistani origin (〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.01). At endpoint, 0% in the Danish-fortified group and 3% in the Pakistani-fortified group had 25(OH)D 〈 30 nmol/L, compared with 23 % and 34% in their respective control groups.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Vitamin D fortification of four different foods for 12 weeks during winter was effective in increasing serum 25(OH)D and reducing the prevalence of very low vitamin D status among women of Danish and Pakistani origin.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier〈/h3〉 〈p〉NCT02631629.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉An understanding of the spatial distribution and contribution of a power plant to local soil contamination is important for the planning of soil use and prioritizing remedial actions for public safety. Consequently, the aim of this study was to map the spatial distribution of potentially hazardous elements (PHEs; Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cd, As, and Se) in soils around a large (796 MW) coal-fired power plant in Brazil. For the purpose, 33 soil samples were collected in the area within a radius of approximately 17.5 km from the plant and subsequently analyzed for PHEs. The frequency and direction of winds were also obtained from a meteorological station in the region. The sampling area was divided into four quadrants (northwest: N-NW; northeast: N-NE; southeast: S-SE; southwest: S-SW), and there were significant negative correlations between the distance and the concentrations of Se in the S-SE quadrant and As in the S-SW and S-SE quadrants. There were positive correlations between distance from the plant and the concentration of Mn in the N-NE quadrant and the concentration of Cd in the S-SW quadrant. The dominant direction of the winds was N-NE. The indexes used in this study showed low-to-moderate enrichment factor, but detailed analysis of the dominant quadrant of the winds showed a correlation with higher concentrations in the soils closer to the power plant for at least seven of the PHEs analyzed, especially with regard to As. Therefore, we conclude that the distribution of the metalloid As can be used as a marker of the spatial distribution of contamination from the thermoelectric plant, but the dynamics of the other elements suggests that the presence of other sources of contamination may also compromise the quality of local soils.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study examined the association of free sugar (FS) intake with obesity measures and blood pressure (BP) among a nationally representative sample of Australian adults.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Data from adults (weighted 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 5136) who completed 2 × 24-h recalls and had complete data for BP, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. Associations between percentage energy of FS from all food sources (%EFS〈sub〉total〈/sub〉), beverages only (%EFS〈sub〉beverages〈/sub〉), and non-beverages sources only (%EFS〈sub〉non-beverages〈/sub〉) and obesity measures and BP were examined using linear and non-linear regressions. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios (OR) of being classified as overweight and/or obese, having increased cardiometabolic risks, and elevated BP per 5% point increase in %EFS〈sub〉total〈/sub〉, %EFS〈sub〉beverages〈/sub〉, and %EFS〈sub〉non-beverages〈/sub〉. All regression analyses were adjusted for known socio-economic and lifestyle confounders.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉%EFS〈sub〉beverage〈/sub〉 was positively associated with BMI, WC, and WHtR (all 〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05), while %EFS〈sub〉non-beverage〈/sub〉 was inversely associated with these outcomes. Increases in odds of having an undesirable WC/WHtR were found with increasing %EFS〈sub〉beverages〈/sub〉 (OR per 5% point increase in %EFS〈sub〉beverages〈/sub〉: 1.19 for WC; 1.23 for WHtR, both 〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.001). %EFS〈sub〉total〈/sub〉 and %EFS〈sub〉non-beverages〈/sub〉 were weakly and negatively associated with diastolic BP. A 5% point increase in %EFS〈sub〉total〈/sub〉 and %EFS〈sub〉non-beverage〈/sub〉 was associated with a 10–25% reduction in odds of having elevated BP.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our results suggested that only a higher FS intake from beverages may be associated with obesity, and higher FS intake was associated with reduced odds of having elevated BP.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study evaluated the feasibility of combining potassium chloride (KCl) leaching and electrokinetic (EK) treatment for the remediation of cadmium (Cd) and other metals from contaminated soils. KCl leaching was compared at three concentrations (0.2%, 0.5%, and 1% KCl). EK treatment was conducted separately to migrate the metals in the topsoil to the subsoil. The combined approach using KCl leaching before or after EK treatment was compared. For the single vertical EK treatment, the removal of Cd, lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) from the topsoil (0–20 cm) was 9.38%, 4.80%, 0.95%, and 10.81%, respectively. KCl leaching at 1% KCl removed 84.06% Cd, 9.95% Pb, 4.34% Cu, and 19.93% Zn from the topsoil, with higher removal efficiency than that of the 0.2% and 0.5% KCl leaching treatments. By combining the KCl leaching and EK treatment, the removal efficiency of heavy metals improved, in particular for the 1% KCl + EK treatment, where the removal rate of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn from the upper surface soil reached 97.79%, 17.69%, 14.37%, and 41.96%, respectively. Correspondingly, the soil Cd content decreased from 4 to 0.21 mg/kg, and was below the Chinese standard limit of 0.3 mg/kg soil. These results indicate that 1% KCl + EK treatment is a good combination technique to mitigate Cd pollution from contaminated soils used for growing rice and leafy vegetables.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Excessive exposure of glucocorticoids activates adipose lipolysis, increases circulating free fatty acids, and contributes to ectopic lipid deposition in liver and skeletal muscle. Our previous study demonstrated that maternal betaine supplementation attenuates glucocorticoid-induced hepatic lipid accumulation in rat offspring. However, it is unclear whether maternal betaine supplementation is effective in preventing glucocorticoid-induced lipolysis in the adipose tissue of offspring.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉In this study, 20 pregnant rats were fed with basal or betaine-supplemented (10 g/kg) diets throughout gestation and lactation, and the offspring rats were raised on the basal diet from weaning till 3 months of age followed by daily intraperitoneal injection of saline or 0.1 mg/kg dexamethasone (DEX) for 3 weeks.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Chronic DEX treatment significantly (〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.05) decreased serum corticosterone level and increased proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6. Meanwhile, GR protein content in adipose tissue was increased in response to DEX treatment, which was associated with a significant (〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.05) up-regulation of ATGL and HSL expression at both mRNA and protein levels. All these DEX-induced changes were significantly (〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.05) attenuated in progeny rats derived from betaine-supplemented dams. Furthermore, DEX-induced hypomethylation of ATGL and HSL gene promoters was reversed by maternal betaine supplementation.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Taken together, these results suggest that maternal betaine supplementation is effective in alleviating glucocorticoid-induced lipolysis in adipose tissue with modification of DNA methylation on the promoter of lipolytic genes.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Very little information is available about Hg and Cr evolution in greenhouse soils. This paper presents the results of determining Hg and Cr in greenhouse soils in a semi-arid region in the southern Iberian Peninsula (Almería, Spain), and assessing the enrichment level and the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) according to crop age. Hakanson’s approach was used to evaluate the PERI. To investigate the behaviour of Hg and Cr in greenhouse soils over time, samples were grouped into values in soils for blocks according to crop age: 0 years, 5–10 years, 10–20 years, more than 20 years. The results showed that 74% of GS exceeded the obtained background level (37.1 μg kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) for Hg, with 43% (48.9 mg kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) for Cr. Temporal patterns indicated that these elements are accumulating in greenhouse soils and this trend was very significant for Hg. After more than 20 intensive crop-farming years, concentrations and the PERI had clearly increased. Although the ecological risk was moderate, our observations suggest that the farming practices performed in the last 35 years have allowed these metals to accumulate. In fact, the 15% of the studied soils presented a considerable potential risk and were the soils that had been used longer.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉The interactions between lifestyle and genetic factors play an important role in obesity development. Mutations in melanocortin-4-receptor (MC4R) gene are one of the most common cause of monogenic obesity, however, the functional effects of polymorphic variants near MC4R gene in general populations remain uncertain. The aim of our study was to analyze whether the common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of MC4R gene influence the food preferences, physical activity, body fat content and distribution, as well as fasting and postprandial energy expenditure and substrates utilization.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉We genotyped previously identified MC4R SNPs: rs17782313, rs633265, rs1350341, rs12970134 in 927 subjects, who underwent anthropometric, total body fat content, visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) measurements, and daily physical activity and dietary intake analysis. In randomly selected 47 subjects the energy expenditure, carbohydrate and lipid utilizations were evaluated in fasting state and after high-carbohydrate and control meals intake.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉We found the significant associations between studied SNPs of MC4R gene and VAT and VAT/SAT ratio. Moreover, the GG genotype carriers of rs1350341, who had the lowest VAT accumulation (〈em〉p〈/em〉 = 0.012), presented higher relative increase in postprandial carbohydrate utilization (〈em〉p〈/em〉 = 0.013, 〈em〉p〈/em〉 = 0.024).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉We have observed that common SNPs of the MC4R gene influence the body fat content and distribution, as well as relative increase in postprandial carbohydrate utilization. We believe that our study may help to understand better the impact of MC4R gene on obesity development, and to help to provide personalized prevention/treatment strategies to fight against obesity and its metabolic consequences.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been associated with fewer depressive symptoms, however, it is unknown whether this is attributed to some or to all components. We examined the association between the individual food groups of the Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS), in isolation and in combination, with depression and anxiety (symptom severity and diagnosis).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Data from 1634 adults were available from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. Eleven energy-adjusted food groups were created from a 238-item food frequency questionnaire. In regression analysis, these were associated in isolation and combination with (1) depressive and anxiety disorders (established with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview) (current disorder 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 414), and (2) depression and anxiety severity [measured with the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (IDS), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the Fear Questionnaire (FEAR)].〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Overall, the MDS score shows the strongest relationships with depression/anxiety [Diagnosis: odds ratio (OR) 0.77 per SD, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.66–0.90, IDS: standardised betas (〈em〉β〈/em〉) − 0.13, 95% CI − 0.18, − 0.08] and anxiety (BAI: 〈em〉β〈/em〉 − 0.11, 95% CI − 0.16, − 0.06, FEAR: 〈em〉β〈/em〉 − 0.08, 95% CI − 0.13, − 0.03). Greater consumption of non-refined grains and vegetables was associated with lower depression and anxiety severity, whilst being a non-drinker was associated with higher symptom severity. Higher fruit and vegetable intake was associated with lower fear severity. Non-refined grain consumption was associated with lower odds and being a non-drinker with greater odds of current depression/anxiety disorders compared to healthy controls, these associations persisted after adjustment for other food groups (OR 0.82 per SD, 95% CI 0.71–0.96, OR 1.26 per SD 95% CI 1.08–1.46).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉We can conclude that non-refined grains, vegetables and alcohol intake appeared to be the driving variables for the associated the total MDS score and depression/anxiety. However, the combined effect of the whole diet remains important for mental health. It should be explored whether an increase consumption of non-refined grains and vegetables may help to prevent or reduce depression and anxiety.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉This study aimed to examine the psychological factors (knowledge, barriers and facilitators) that can contribute to hydration-related behaviors (i.e., fluid intake) in the general population and how these relate to physical health.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉A structured survey was developed to examine the links between hydration knowledge (29 items), attitudes about hydration (80 items), and fluid intake behavior (8 items) among US adults. Survey data from Phase 1 (〈em〉n 〈/em〉=301, US adults) psychometrically evaluated the items via item analysis (knowledge and fluid behavior) and factor analysis (attitudes). Phase 2 survey data (〈em〉n 〈/em〉=389, US adults and college students) refined and validated the new 16-item hydration knowledge measure, 4-item fluid intake behavior index, and 18-item attitude measure (barriers and facilitators of hydration-related behaviors) alongside indices of physical health (BMI and exercise behaviors).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Participants had a moderate level of hydration knowledge (Phase 1: 10.91 ± 3.10; Phase 2: 10.87 ± 2.47). A five-factor measure of attitudes which assessed both facilitators (social pressure and attention to monitoring) and barriers (lack of effort, physical barriers and lack of a fluid container) to hydration demonstrated strong internal consistency (〈em〉α〈/em〉s from 0.75 to 0.90). Attitudes about hydration—most notably barriers to hydration—were associated with indicators of health and with fluid intake behaviors, whereas hydration knowledge was not.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Increasing hydration knowledge may be necessary for people who hold inaccurate information about hydration, but attitudes about hydration are likely to have a larger impact on fluid intake behaviors and health-related outcomes.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Effects of Cu toxicity from contaminated soil were analysed in spring barley (〈em〉Hordeum sativum〈/em〉 distichum), a widely cultivated species in South Russia. In this study, 〈em〉H. sativum〈/em〉 was planted outdoors in one of the most fertile soils—Haplic Chernozem spiked with high concentration of Cu and examined between the boot and head emergence phase of growth. Copper toxicity was observed to cause slow ontogenetic development of plants, changing their morphometric parameters (shape, size, colour). To the best of our knowledge, the ultrastructural changes in roots, stems and leaves of 〈em〉H. sativum〈/em〉 induced by excess Cu were fully characterized for the first time using transmission electron microscopy. The plant roots were the most effected, showing degradation of the epidermis, reduced number of parenchyma cells, as well as a significant decrease in the diameter of the stele and a disruption and modification to its cell structure. The comparative analysis of the ultrastructure of control plants and plants exposed to the toxic effects of Cu has made it possible to reveal significant disruption of the integrity of the cell wall and cytoplasmic membranes in the root with deposition of electron-dense material. The changes in the ultrastructure of the main cytoplasmic organelles—endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, chloroplasts and peroxisomes—in the stem and leaves were found. The cellular Cu deposition, anatomical and ultrastructural modifications could mainly account for the primary impact points of metal toxicity. Therefore, this work extends the available knowledge of the mechanisms of the Cu effect tolerance of barley.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Differences in bird eggshell thicknesses occur due to numerous factors, including thinning due to persistent organic pollutants. Not only does thinning weaken the shell; weaker shells combined with elevated ambient temperature and changes in humidities may result in changes in water loss rates from the egg contents. Therefore, thinner eggshells raise concern of water being lost faster than normal at lower relative humidities, which may affect hatching. To investigate the combined effects, we developed and tested an effective method that measures water loss through different thickness eggshells at controlled temperatures and relative humidities to assist in ascertaining the combined effects of climate change (temperature and humidity) and changes in eggshell thickness on bird reproduction. The fastest rate of loss was at 40% RH at 40 °C (0.1 mL/cm〈sup〉2〈/sup〉/day), and the slowest was at 22 °C at 80% RH (0.02 mL/cm〈sup〉2〈/sup〉/day). Eggshell thickness had a significant effect on water loss at all humidity treatments, except at the highest temperature and humidity treatment (80% RH and 40 °C). Temperature explained 40% of the variance, RH explained 20%, and interactions between temperature and humidity explained 15% of the variance (repeated-measures, two-way ANOVA). Generalized linear analyses revealed that both factors temperature and humidity contributed significantly in any two-way combinations. We have laid the ground for a system to test the combined effects of temperature and humidity changes associated with climate change and eggshell thinning associated with pollutants, on water loss across eggshells.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Accurate data on water and beverage intakes are essential for assessing hydration adequacy and setting proper guidelines. The objective of this study is to identify the patterns and sociodemographic determinants of water intake and to assess the intake adequacy for children in China.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉The study team recruited 41,439 children aged 6–17 years using a multi-stage cluster random sampling method. Daily water and beverage intakes were investigated with the standard questionnaires and measuring containers in face-to-face interviews. Each participant was assigned an adjustment weight to obtain a nationally representative sample. Sociodemographic factors influencing water intake were identified using multi-variable regressions. Water intake adequacy was evaluated by comparing with the recommended water intake (RWI).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The mean ± standard deviation of total water intake (TWI) was 1603 ± 731 mL/day for boys and 1487 ± 661 mL/day for girls. Plain water, food moisture, and other beverages contributed 51%, 20%, and 29% of the TWI. Multi-variable analyses showed that TWI of children increased with age, in urban areas and day schools, and with parents’ economic and educational levels. The majority (82%) of children had TWI not meeting the corresponding RWI, and the percentage increased with age except for 14–17-year-old boys.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Plain water is still the major source of daily water intake by children in China. Unfortunately, the majority of children do not have sufficient water intake, which warrants future actions and guidelines targeting adequate hydration.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Objective〈/h3〉 〈p〉Choline and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are essential nutrients for preterm infant development. They are metabolically linked via phosphatidylcholine (PC), a constitutive plasma membrane lipid and the major transport form of DHA in plasma. Plasma choline and DHA-PC concentrations rapidly decline after preterm birth. To improve preterm infant nutrition, we evaluated combined compared to exclusive choline and DHA supplementation, and standard feeding.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Design〈/h3〉 〈p〉Randomized partially blinded single-center trial.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Setting〈/h3〉 〈p〉Neonatal tertiary referral center in Tübingen, Germany.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Patients〈/h3〉 〈p〉24 inborn preterm infants 〈 32 week postmenstrual age.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Interventions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Standard nutrition (control) or, additionally, enteral choline (30 mg/kg/day), DHA (60 mg/kg/day), or both for 10 days. Single enteral administration of 3.6 mg/kg [methyl-D〈sub〉9〈/sub〉-] choline chloride as a tracer at 7.5 days.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Main outcome measures〈/h3〉 〈p〉Primary outcome variable was plasma choline following 7 days of supplementation. Deuterated and unlabeled choline metabolites, DHA-PC, and other PC species were secondary outcome variables.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Choline supplementation increased plasma choline to near-fetal concentrations [35.4 (32.8–41.7) µmol/L vs. 17.8 (16.1–22.4) µmol/L, 〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.01] and decreased D〈sub〉9〈/sub〉-choline enrichment of PC. Single DHA treatment decreased DHA in PC relative to total lipid [66 (60–68)% vs. 78 (74–80)%; 〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.01], which was prevented by choline. DHA alone increased DHA-PC only by 35 (26–45)%, but combined treatment by 63 (49–74)% (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.001). D〈sub〉9〈/sub〉-choline enrichment showed preferential synthesis of PC containing linoleic acid. PC synthesis via phosphatidylethanolamine methylation resulted in preferential synthesis of DHA-containing D〈sub〉3〈/sub〉-PC, which was increased by choline supplementation.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉30 mg/kg/day additional choline supplementation increases plasma choline to near-fetal concentrations, dilutes the D〈sub〉9〈/sub〉-choline tracer via increased precursor concentrations and improves DHA homeostasis in preterm infants.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Trial registration〈/h3〉 〈p〉clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT02509728.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Stroke was demonstrated to correlate with seasonal variation. However, the relevant studies were incongruous. To better understand the rules of seasonal impact on ischemic stroke (IS) patients, we performed this meta-analysis. We systematically searched relevant observational studies in Pubmed, Web of science and Embase from January 1, 1980, to November 1, 2017, in English. Patients included in this study were adults who suffered from IS. Stata version 12.0 software was used to pool useful data and calculate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We also performed heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses and evaluated publication bias. Thirty-three observational studies involving 234,196 participants were incorporated into the meta-analysis. Summer and December were regarded as reference, respectively. The IRRs were calculated showing: IRR〈sub〉Winter〈/sub〉 1.05 (95% CI 1.04–1.07), IRR〈sub〉Autumn〈/sub〉 1.03 (95% CI 1.02–1.04), IRR〈sub〉Spring〈/sub〉 1.02 (95% CI 1.01–1.03). No obvious difference existed among 12 months. Stratified analyses on Köppen classification were also conducted. Between-study heterogeneity was discovered; however, predefined stratified analyses and meta-regression could not reduce this heterogeneity. Our meta-analysis has revealed very little seasonal variation in the overall study. Both cold and hot months may be high risky for IS after stratified by Köppen Climate Classification. Thus, a rationale to environmental setting of risky patient management could be provided. More studies with specific assessments are warranted for further comprehensive investigation.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉The main purpose of the current study is to assess the contamination status, human health risk, and spatial distribution of heavy metals in the urban soils from the Medak province in India. For this purposes, a total of 40 urban surface soil samples were collected and analyzed seven heavy metals including chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn). The results of the study showed that the concentration of Cr (81–751 mg/kg), Cu (2–180 mg/kg), Zn (25–108 mg/kg), Pb (5–77 mg/kg), Ni (1–50 mg/kg), As (0.4–14 mg/kg), and Cd (0.1–4.2 mg/kg), respectively, was found above their natural background values. The geo-accumulation index analysis indicated that except Zn, all other tested heavy metals had a range of moderately to heavily polluted/contaminated in the study region. Spatial distribution pattern analysis inferred that the soil heavy metal (Cu, Cr, Zn, and Ni) pollutions in western regions of Medak were relatively larger than that in central and eastern regions. The hazard index (HI) values for Cu, Cd, Zn, As, Pb, and Ni were below 1, implying that there is no non-carcinogenic risks exposure from these heavy metals in soil for children and adults in the study region. However, HI value for Cr ranged from 3.08E−01 to 2.86E+00 for children, implying that children were relatively vulnerable population than adults in the current study region. Comparatively speaking, 67.5% and 100% total carcinogenic risks for Cr values for adults and children were larger than the acceptable threshold value of 1.0E−04, indicating chromium poses the greatest carcinogenic risk in the study region.〈/p〉

Description: 〈span〉 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Carbon dioxide (CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) capture and storage (CCS) plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions to the atmosphere. However, gas leakage from deep storage reservoirs, which may flow back into near-surface and eventually to the atmosphere, is a major concern associated with this technology. Despite an increase in research focusing on potential CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 leakage into deep surface features and aquifers, a significant knowledge gap remains in the geochemical changes associated with near-surface. This study reviews the geochemical processes related to the intrusion of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 into near-surface environments with an emphasis on metal mobilization and discusses about the geochemical research approaches, recent findings, and current knowledge gaps. It is found that the intrusion of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉(g) into near-surface likely induces changes in pH, dissolution of minerals, and potential degradation of surrounding environments. The development of adequate geochemical research approaches for assessing CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 leakage in near-surface environments, using field studies, laboratory experiments, and/or geochemical modeling combined with isotopic tracers, has promoted extensive surveys of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉-induced reactions. However, addressing knowledge gaps in geochemical changes in near-surface environments is fundamental to advance current knowledge on how CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 leaks from storage sites and the consequences of this process on soil and water chemistry. For reliable detection and risk management of the potential impact of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 leakage from storage sites on the environmental chemistry, currently available geochemical research approaches should be either combined or used independently (albeit in a manner complementarily to one another), and the results should be jointly interpreted.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Graphical abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉 〈span〉 〈span〉 〈img alt="" src="https://static-content.springer.com/image/MediaObjects/10653_2019_263_Figa_HTML.png"〉 〈/span〉 〈/span〉 〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉We prospectively examined associations of lung cancer risk with food intake of B vitamins involved in one-carbon metabolism and the use of folic acid-containing supplements among a low-income population of black and white adults in the Southeastern US.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Within the Southern Community Cohort Study, we included 1064 incident lung cancer cases among 68,236 participants aged 40–79 years at study enrollment. Food intake and the use of folic acid-containing supplements were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire at study enrollment. Multivariate Cox regression was used to estimate hazards ratios (HRs) and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Folate and/or folic acid intake from food were not associated with lung cancer risk; HRs (95% CI) for highest compared with lowest quartile were 1.08 (0.91–1.29) for total dietary folate, 1.00 (0.84–1.19) for food folate, and 1.09 (0.91–1.30) for food folic acid, respectively. Similarly, no associations were observed after stratifying by sex, race and smoking status, except for a positive association with total dietary folate intake among black women (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.04–2.05 for the highest quartile compared with the lowest quartile, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 trend = 0.02). Neither the use of folic acid-containing supplements nor food intake of vitamin B〈sub〉6〈/sub〉, vitamin B〈sub〉12〈/sub〉 and riboflavin were associated with lung cancer risk.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our findings do not support a protective effect of folate or folic acid for lung cancer prevention in a low-income population of black and white adults in the Southeastern US. Our finding of a positive association with total dietary folate intake among black women needs to be interpreted with caution and replicated in other studies.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Despite longstanding voluntary salt iodisation in Switzerland, data suggest inadequate iodine intake in vulnerable population groups. In response, the salt iodine concentration was increased from 20 to 25 mg/kg and we assessed the impact on iodine status.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉We conducted a cross-sectional national study in school-age children (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 731), women of reproductive age (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 353) and pregnant women (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 363). We measured urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and urinary sodium concentration (UNaC) in spot urine samples. The current median UIC was compared with national data from 1999, 2004 and 2009. We measured TSH, total T4 and thyroglobulin (Tg) on dried blood spot samples collected in women.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉The median UIC (bootstrapped 95% CI) was 137 µg/L (131, 143 µg/L) in school children, 88 µg/L (72, 103 µg/L) in women of reproductive age and 140 µg/L (124, 159 µg/L) in pregnant women. Compared to 2009, the median UIC increased modestly in school children (〈em〉P〈/em〉 〈 0.001), but did not significantly change in pregnant women (〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.417). Estimated sodium intake exceeded the recommendations in all population groups. The prevalence of thyroid disorders in women was low, but Tg was elevated in 13% of the pregnant women.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusion〈/h3〉 〈p〉Iodine intake is overall adequate in Swiss school-age children, but only borderline sufficient in pregnant and non-pregnant women, despite high salt intakes and satisfactory household coverage with iodized salt. Our findings suggest increasing the concentration of iodine in salt may not improve iodine intakes in women if iodised salt is not widely used in processed foods.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Registration〈/h3〉 〈p〉This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02312466.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉This work aimed to design and validate a novel short food frequency questionnaire (SFFQ) to assess habitual intakes of food items related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a cohort of European patients.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉A 48-item SFFQ was created, with questions from existing FFQs and expert knowledge, emphasizing foods and nutrients implicated in NAFLD pathogenesis. Consenting, fibroscan-diagnosed, NAFLD patients completed the SFFQ during a short interview and were asked to complete a 4-day diet diary (4DDD) at home for return by mail. Nutritional intakes were assessed utilizing the myfood24™ food composition dataset and estimated energy requirements (EER) were calculated using sex-, age- and weight-specific equations. Agreement between the dietary instruments was assessed by Spearman correlations and Bland Altman analysis.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Fifty-five patients completed both the SFFQ and the 4DDD within 30 weeks; 42 (76%) were diagnosed with simple steatosis, whereas 13 (24%) had biopsy-proven steatohepatitis; the majority were overweight or obese, with a median (25th; 75th percentile) BMI of 33.2 kg/m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 (29.3; 36.0). Reported energy intakes were well below EER with a median intake of 73% of requirements, suggesting widespread under-reporting. Significant correlations were observed between sugar (〈em〉r〈/em〉 = 0.408, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.002), fat (〈em〉r〈/em〉 = 0.44, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.001), fruits (〈em〉r〈/em〉 = 0.51, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.0001) and vegetables (〈em〉r〈/em〉 = 0.40, 〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.0024) measurements by the SFFQ and 4DDD. Bland Altman plots with regression analysis demonstrated broad comparability with the 4DDD for intakes of fat (bias − 13.8 g/day) and sugar (bias  + 12.9 g/day).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉A novel SFFQ designed to be minimally burdensome to participants was effective at assessing dietary intakes in NAFLD patients.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Cognitive decline is commonly reported during the menopausal transition, with memory and attention being particularly affected. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a commercially available soy drink on cognitive function and menopausal symptoms in post-menopausal women.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉101 post-menopausal women, aged 44–63 years, were randomly assigned to consume a volume of soy drink providing a low (10 mg/day; control group), medium (35 mg/day), or high (60 mg/day) dose of isoflavones for 12 weeks. Cognitive function (spatial working memory, spatial span, pattern recognition memory, 5-choice reaction time, and match to sample visual search) was assessed using CANTAB pre- and post-the 12 week intervention. Menopausal symptoms were assessed using Greene’s Climacteric Scale.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉No significant differences were observed between the groups for any of the cognitive function outcomes measured. Soy drink consumption had no effect on menopausal symptoms overall; however, when women were stratified according to the severity of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) at baseline, women with more severe symptoms at baseline in the medium group had a significant reduction (〈em〉P〈/em〉 = 0.001) in VMS post-intervention (mean change from baseline score: − 2.15 ± 1.73) in comparison to those with less severe VMS (mean change from baseline score: 0.06 ± 1.21).〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Soy drink consumption had no effect on cognitive function in post-menopausal women. Consumption of ~ 350 ml/day (35 mg IFs) for 12 weeks significantly reduced VMS in those with more severe symptoms at baseline. This finding is clinically relevant as soy drinks may provide an alternative, natural, treatment for alleviating VMS, highly prevalent among western women.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Homocysteine (Hcy) in humans represents a blood-borne biomarker which predicts the risk of age-related diseases and mortality. Using the nematode 〈em〉Caenorhabditis elegans〈/em〉, we tested whether feeding betaine-rich sugar beet molasses affects the survival under heat stress in the presence of Hcy, in spite of a gene loss in betaine–homocysteine methyltransferase.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Knockdown of the genes relevant for remethylation or transsulfuration of Hcy was achieved by RNA interference (RNAi). Survival assay was conducted under heat stress at 37 °C and Hcy levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉Addition of 500 mg/l betaine-rich sugar beet molasses (SBM) prevented the survival reduction that was caused by exposure to Hcy at 37 °C. Although SBM was no longer capable of reducing Hcy levels under RNAi versus homologues for 5, 10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase or cystathionine-β-synthase, it still enabled the survival extension by SBM under exposure to Hcy. In contrast, RNAi for the small heat shock protein 〈em〉hsp-16.2〈/em〉 or the foxo transcription factor 〈em〉daf-16〈/em〉 both prevented the extension of survival by betaine-rich molasses in the presence of Hcy.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our studies demonstrate that betaine-rich SBM is able to prevent survival reduction caused by Hcy in 〈em〉C. elegans〈/em〉 in dependence on 〈em〉hsp-16.2〈/em〉 and 〈em〉daf-16〈/em〉 but independent of the remethylation pathway.〈/p〉 〈/span〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈p〉Nowadays, air pollution by humans is considered a serious problem. One of the main sources of air pollution is carbon monoxide which is called the silent killer. With the increasing rate of population growth in Iran and subsequent acceleration of vehicle and fossil fuel usage, the mortality rate of carbon monoxide has increased. The aim of this study is assessment of the concentration of carbon monoxide in indoor and outdoor air of Sarayan city, Khorasan Province of Iran. In this descriptive-analytic study, the air condition of a residential area and outdoor environment of Sarayan city has been monitored for determining the carbon monoxide concentration during a 3-month period from January to March 2017. Overall, 25 stations with uniform distribution were located in the city. Fifty samples were taken monthly and by considering 3-month period, a total of 150 samples were gathered. The samples were taken in kitchens between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and by considering the respiratory height of the human body, the carbon monoxide meters (TES model, Taiwan) were placed at a height of 75–150 cm. The descriptive statistics were presented after entering data into SPSS-16, and, by applying Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests in the case of 〈em〉α〈/em〉 = 0.05, the data were analyzed. The average concentrations of carbon monoxide in indoor and outdoor environments were 0.84 ± 3.21 ppm and 0.27 ± 0.92 ppm, respectively. The maximum carbon monoxide concentration in February in an outdoor environment was 6 ppm (station no. 4) and the least one was 0 ppm. In March, for an indoor area, the maximum carbon monoxide concentration was 41 pm for station no. 11. The indoor-to-outdoor (I-to-O) ratio in March was higher than other months, and in January, was less than others. The study reveals that the indoor and outdoor carbon monoxide indices of Sarayan city are at acceptable levels.〈/p〉

Description: 〈h3〉Abstract〈/h3〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Purpose〈/h3〉 〈p〉Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was associated with gut microbial impairment (dysbiosis) and neurological and behavioral disorders. The role of the gut–brain axis in the management of many diseases including T2DM has been the focus of much research activity in the recent years. However, a wide knowledge gap exists about the gut microbial effects on the function of glia cells. Hence, the present study was aimed to examine the effects of psychobatics on dysbiosis and glia cells function in enteric and central nervous system with an inflammatory insight in T2DM.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Methods〈/h3〉 〈p〉Thirty rats were treated by 〈em〉Lactobacillus〈/em〉 (〈em〉L〈/em〉.) 〈em〉plantarum〈/em〉, inulin, or their combination (synbiotic) for 8 weeks after inducing T2DM. Fecal sample was collected to evaluate gut microbial composition. Then, the rats were sacrificed, and the colon, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were studied.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Results〈/h3〉 〈p〉T2DM resulted in dysbiosis and increased levels of glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and inflammatory markers (IL-17, IL-6, and TLR-2) in the colon and brain. However, concurrent supplementation of 〈em〉L. plantarum〈/em〉 and inulin could improve the gut microbial composition as well as reduce the levels of inflammatory cytokines. While the administration of 〈em〉L. plantarum〈/em〉 led to a significant decrease in TLR-2 as well as GDNF and GFAP only in the amygdala, the synbiotic intake could make such changes in the colon, amygdala, and PFC.〈/p〉 〈/span〉 〈span〉 〈h3〉Conclusions〈/h3〉 〈p〉Our findings demonstrated an innovative approach to the beneficial effects of psychobiotics in neuroinflammation and behavioral performance through gut microbiota changes, focusing on possible role of glial cells in gut–brain axis.〈/p〉 〈/span〉