ALBERT

Description: Objective   To evaluate the effects of 5 % weight loss, through diet only or diet plus exercise, on lipid profile, inflammation and endothelial function in obese individuals. Methods   In this randomized clinical trial, 48 obese individuals were randomized to either a diet only group (DI) or a diet and exercise group (DI + EXE). Treatment was maintained until 5 % of the initial body weight was lost. At baseline and upon completion, the following parameters were analyzed: total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation—FMD). Results   Thirteen individuals dropped out before completing the weight loss intervention. The median time required for reduction of 5 % of initial body weight was 79.7 days for the DI group and 65.9 days for the DI + EXE group ( P  = 0.16). In both DI ( n  = 18) and DI + EXE ( n  = 17), total cholesterol (−15.8 ± 4.8 and −10.5 ± 4.9 mg/dL, respectively), triglycerides (−33.8 ± 10.0 and −39.4 ± 10.3 mg/dL, respectively) and hs-CRP (−1.35 ± 0.41 and −0.45 ± 0.43 mg/L, respectively) decreased significantly, and in a similar response (repeated measures ANOVA). Weight loss did not change significantly the fibrinogen and FMD in both groups. Conclusion   A 5 % weight loss improves lipid profile and reduces inflammation in obese individuals. Endothelial function did not change significantly. Weight loss has a significant impact on these cardiovascular risk factors, and this is independent of physical training. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0450-1 Authors Ana Paula Trussardi Fayh, Endocrine Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil André Luiz Lopes, Exercise Research Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Antônio Marcos Vargas da Silva, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil Álvaro Reischak-Oliveira, Exercise Research Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Rogério Friedman, Endocrine Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Aim   To investigate the effects of a neonatal low-protein diet on the number of macrophages in culture and the expression/production of proteins that regulate macrophage fusion in young and adult rats. Methods   Male Wistar rats ( n  = 18) were suckled by mothers fed diets containing 17 % protein (controls, C) or 8 % protein (undernourished, UN). All rats were fed a normal protein diet after weaning. Bronchoalveolar lavage was collected from 42-, 60- and 90-day-old rats. Alveolar macrophages were cultured for 4 days to assess the number of cells and the expression of cadherins, key proteins involved in macrophage fusion, by western blotting. IL-4 and IFN-γ levels in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. Results   Offspring from mothers fed a low-protein diet showed a lower body weight gain. The number of cells in cultured macrophages from UN was reduced at 42 and 60 days and increased at 90 days. IL-4 production was increased in the supernatants from UN group at 60 days but did not affect the expression of cadherins. IFN-γ production was increased in the supernatants from UN group at 42 and 60 days and reduced at 90 days. Conclusions   This study thus demonstrated that dietary restriction during lactation altered the number of alveolar macrophages in culture and the production of fusion proteins of offspring aged 42, 60 or 90 days but did not modify the expression of adhesion molecules important for the fusion of these cells. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0453-y Authors Juliana Félix de Melo, Department of Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil Thacianna Barreto da Costa, Department of Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil Tamara D. da Costa Lima, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Campus UFPE, Recife, Brazil Maria E. C. Chaves, Keizo Asami Laboratory of Immunopathology, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Moraes Rego, 1235, Cidade Universitária, Recife, Pernambuco 50670-901, Brazil Muriel Vayssade, UMR CNRS 6600, Université de Technologie de Compiègne, Compiègne, France Marie-Danielle Nagel, UMR CNRS 6600, Université de Technologie de Compiègne, Compiègne, France Célia M. M. B. de Castro, Department of Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To examine the association of red meat and whole-grain bread consumption with plasma levels of biomarkers related to glucose metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation and obesity. Methods   Our cross-sectional study was based on 2,198 men and women who were selected as a sub-cohort for an investigation of biological predictors of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Potsdam study. Circulating levels of glycated hemoglobin, adiponectin, hs-CRP, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alanine-aminotransferase, fetuin-A, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides were measured from random blood samples. Diet and lifestyle data were assessed by questionnaires, and anthropometric data were measured. Results   After multivariable adjustment, higher consumption of whole-grain bread was significantly ( P trend 〈0.05) associated with lower levels of GGT, ALT and hs-CRP, whereas higher consumption of red meat was significantly associated with higher levels of GGT and hs-CRP when adjusted for potential confounding factors related to lifestyle and diet. Further adjustment for body mass index and waist circumference attenuated the association between red meat and hs-CRP ( P  = 0.19). Conclusions   The results of this study suggest that high consumption of whole-grain bread is related to lower levels of GGT, ALT and hs-CRP, whereas high consumption of red meat is associated with higher circulating levels of GGT and hs-CRP. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0340-6 Authors Jukka Montonen, Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany Heiner Boeing, Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany Andreas Fritsche, Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany Erwin Schleicher, Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany Hans-Georg Joost, Department of Pharmacology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany Matthias B. Schulze, Department of Molecular Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany Annika Steffen, Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany Tobias Pischon, Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We explored the pathophysiologic mechanisms of long-term fructose-induced lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in rats. Methods   Male Wistar rats were fed with fructose for 3 or 6 months. Biochemical and transcystometric parameters were compared between fructose-fed and age-matched normal-diet rats. Pelvic nerve and external urethral sphincter-electromyogram activity recordings were performed to investigate fructose effects on neural control of bladders. Mitochondrial structure, ATP and acetylcholine content and purinergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors were examined. Cytosolic cytochrome C staining by Western blot and immunocytochemistry for mitochondrial injury and PGP 9.5 stain for nerve density were also determined. Results   The fructose-fed rats with higher plasma triglyceride, LDL and fasting glucose levels displayed LUTS with increased frequency and suppressed voiding contractile amplitude in phase 1 and phase 2 duration versus normal-diet control. Fructose feeding altered the firing types in pelvic afferent and efferent nerves and external urethral sphincter-electromyogram activity. Increased mast cell number, disrupted and swollen mitochondria, increased cytosolic cytochrome C stain and expression and decreased nerve density in bladder smooth muscle layers appeared in the fructose-fed rats. Fructose feeding also significantly reduced ATP and acetylcholine content and enhanced protein expression of postsynaptic P 2 X 1 , P 2 X 2 and P 2 X 3 purinergic receptors and M 2 and M 3 muscarinic cholinergic receptors expression in the smooth muscles of urinary bladder. Conclusion   Long-term fructose feeding induced neuropathy and myopathy in the urinary bladders. Impaired mitochondrial integrity, reduced nerve density, ATP and acetylcholine content and upregulation of purinergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors expression may contribute to the bladder dysfunction of fructose-fed animals. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0342-4 Authors Shiu-Dong Chung, Department of Urology, Far-Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan Chiang-Ting Chien, Graduate Institution of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan Hong-Jeng Yu, Graduate Institution of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description:    Isoflavones, a group of phytoestrogens, are selective oestrogen receptor (ER) modulators. They may positively impact endocrine-related conditions but the current evidence is sparse. Equol, a non-steroidal oestrogen, is produced by the metabolism of the isoflavone daidzein by intestinal bacteria. In Western countries, 30–50% of individuals metabolize daidzein into equol and are known as equol producers. Equol production may be the source of benefit from isoflavones in endocrine disease. Content Type Journal Article Category Review Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0331-7 Authors Dana Shor, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK Thozhukat Sathyapalan, Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK Stephen L. Atkin, Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK Natalie J. Thatcher, Food Standards Agency, London, UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Introduction   Obese β rats may be a suitable model to evaluate the association between calcium intake (CaI) and obesity during growth. Objective   The present study comparatively evaluated Ca absorption and retention, and changes in body composition in spontaneously genetically obese (β) male rats fed three different dietary Ca levels: high 0.9% (HCa); normal: 0.5% (NCa); low: 0.2% (LCa). Methods   Pregnant rats were fed isocaloric diets which varied in Ca content only. Male pups continued feeding the same maternal diet until postnatal day 60. The percentage of Apparent Ca absorption (CaA %), Ca balance (CaB), body composition, glucose, triglycerides (TGL), and insulin levels were evaluated. Results   Food consumption and body weight (BW) were higher in Group LCa than in Groups NCa and HCa ( p  〈 0.01); no differences were observed between the latter two groups. Group LCa presented the highest body fat, liver weight, perigonadal and retroperitoneal fat ( p  〈 0.05); conversely, body ashes and total skeleton bone mineral content were significantly lower compared with animals in both the NCa ( p  〈 0.01) and HCa groups ( p  〈 0.01). CaB (mg/day) reached a plateau at the highest CaI (mg/day) value ( r  = 0.985, p  〈 0.001). CaA%, serum glucose, insulin, and TGL levels rose as CaI decreased ( p  〈 0.01). Conclusions   Although further studies are required, low Ca consumption in this strain of rats could modulate BW inducing changes in several lipid metabolism parameters, which in turn lead to an increase in body fat. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0336-2 Authors Clarisa Marotte, National Council for Scientific and Technologic Research, (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina Adriana Weisstaub, Food Science and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Buenos Aires University, Buenos Aires, Argentina Gabriel Bryk, Medical Osteopathies Section, Clinical Hospital, Buenos Aires University, Buenos Aires, Argentina Maria C. Olguin, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Rosario National University (UNR), Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina Marta Posadas, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Rosario National University (UNR), Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina Diego Lucero, Lipid and Lipoprotein Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Buenos Aires University, Buenos Aires, Argentina Laura Schreier, Lipid and Lipoprotein Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Buenos Aires University, Buenos Aires, Argentina Maria Luz Pita Martín de Portela, Food Science and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Buenos Aires University, Buenos Aires, Argentina Susana N. Zeni, National Council for Scientific and Technologic Research, (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Capsaicinoids are the active compounds in chili pepper. The present study investigated the effect of capsaicinoids on plasma lipids, functionality of aorta including atherosclerotic plaque development, cholesterol absorption biomarker, fecal sterol excretion, and gene expression of major receptors, enzymes, and transporters involved in cholesterol metabolism. Methods   Hamsters were divided into five groups and fed a high-cholesterol diet containing 0 % (CON), 0.010 % (LD), 0.015 % (MD), 0.020 % (HD), and 0.030 % (VD) capsaicinoids, respectively, for 6 weeks. Plasma lipids were measured using the enzymatic kits, and the gene expression of transporters, enzymes, and receptors involved in cholesterol absorption and metabolism was quantified using the quantitative PCR. Endothelial function was assessed by measuring the acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent relaxations in aorta. Results   Capsaicinoids reduced plasma total cholesterol, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triacylglycerols with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol being unaffected. All four experimental groups had a decrease in the atherosclerotic plaque compared with CON. Dietary capsaicinoids increased the fecal excretion of total acidic sterols possibly mediated by up-regulation of cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase and down-regulation of liver X receptor alpha. Plasma sterol analysis demonstrated that capsaicinoids decreased the ratio of plasma campesterol/cholesterol, suggesting they decreased cholesterol absorption. Capsaicinoids could improve the endothelium-dependent relaxations and reduce the endothelium-dependent contractions by inhibiting the gene expression of COX-2. However, no dose-dependent effect of capsaicinoids on these parameters was seen. Conclusion   Capsaicinoids were beneficial in improving lipoprotein profile and aortic function in hamsters fed a high-cholesterol diet. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0344-2 Authors Yin Tong Liang, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Xiao-Yu Tian, Institute of Vascular Medicine, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Jing Nan Chen, Kwong Living Trust Food Safety and Analysis Laboratory, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China Cheng Peng, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Ka Ying Ma, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Yuanyuan Zuo, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Rui Jiao, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Ye Lu, Institute of Vascular Medicine, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Yu Huang, Institute of Vascular Medicine, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Zhen-Yu Chen, Food and Nutritional Sciences Programme, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The goals of this study were to monitor the effect of drinking of herbal tea from Sideritis clandestina subsp. clandestina for 6 weeks on behavioral and oxidant/antioxidant parameters of adult male mice and also to evaluate its phytochemical composition. Methods   The phytochemical profile of the Sideritis tea was determined by liquid chromatography-UV diode array coupled to ion-trap mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization interface. The effects of two doses of the herbal infusion (2 and 4% w/v, daily) intake on anxiety-like state in mice were studied by the assessment of their thigmotactic behavior. The oxidant/antioxidant status of brain (-Ce), liver and heart of adult male Balb-c mice following the consumption of Sideritis tea was also evaluated via the measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels using fluorometric assays. Our study was further extended to determine the antioxidant effects of the herbal tea on specific brain regions (cerebral cortex, cerebellum and midbrain). Results   The identified compounds were classified into several natural product classes: quinic acid derivatives, iridoids, phenylethanol glycosides and flavonoids. Our results showed that only the 4% Sideritis tea exhibited anxiolytic-like properties as evidenced by statistically significant ( p  〈 0.05) decrease in the thigmotaxis time and increase in the number of entries to the central zone in comparison with the control group. Consumption of both tea doses (2 and 4% w/v) elevated GSH (12 and 28%, respectively, p  〈 0.05) and decreased MDA (16 and 29%, p  〈 0.05) levels in brain (-Ce), while liver and heart remained unaffected. In regard to the effect of herbal tea drinking (2 and 4% w/v) on specific brain regions, it caused a significant increase in GSH of cerebellum (13 and 36%, respectively, p  〈 0.05) and midbrain (17 and 36%, p  〈 0.05). Similarly, MDA levels were decreased in cerebellum (45 and 79%, respectively, p  〈 0.05) and midbrain (50 and 63%, respectively, p  〈 0.05), whereas cerebral cortex remained unaffected. Conclusions   Mountain tea drinking prevents anxiety-related behaviors and confers antioxidant protection to rodent’s tissues in a region-specific, dose-dependent manner, and its phytochemical constituents are shown for the first time. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0292-2 Authors Catherine G. Vasilopoulou, Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece Vassiliki G. Kontogianni, Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece Zacharoula I. Linardaki, Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece Gregoris Iatrou, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece Fotini N. Lamari, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece Alexandra A. Nerantzaki, Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece Ioannis P. Gerothanassis, Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece Andreas G. Tzakos, Human Cancer Biobank Center, Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece Marigoula Margarity, Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Nutritional factors is one of the most important regulators in the progression of cancer. Some dietary elements promote the growth of cancer but others, such as plant-derived compounds, may reverse this process. Purpose   We tried to investigate yet another approach of cancer prevention through cancer cell differentiation, using a common non-mutagenic flavonoid apigenin 7-glucoside. Methods   HL-60 cells were treated with or without apigenin 7-glucoside. Cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay, and the cell cycle distribution was estimated by propidium iodide staining of DNA. To determine cellular differentiation, cell surface differentiation markers CD11b and CD14 were used. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was then performed to identify proteins that may be important in HL-60 cell differentiation following apigenin 7-glucoside treatment. Results   Apigenin 7-glucoside inhibited HL-60 cell growth, dose- and time-dependently, but did not cause apoptosis. The distribution of cells at different stages in the cell cycle indicated an accumulation of treated cells in G 2 /M phase. Moreover, apigenin 7-glucoside induced granulocytic differentiation of HL-60 cells. Ten proteins that might play essential role in granulocytic differentiation were identified by proteomics. Conclusions   A complete understanding of the preventive effects of plant-based diet on cancer depends on the mechanisms of action of different plant components on processes. We hope these findings may contribute to the understandings of the different approaches for chemoprevention of cancer. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0282-4 Authors Eri Nakazaki, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan Soninkhishig Tsolmon, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan Junkyu Han, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan Hiroko Isoda, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Cranberry juice (CJ) contains a remarkably high concentration of polyphenols, considered to be beneficial for cardiovascular and bone health. The current double-blind, randomized study was designed to test whether daily consumption of double-strength Ocean Spray light CJ (2 × 230 ml) over 4 months has beneficial effects on vascular function and on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) carrying the osteoblastic marker osteocalcin in particular. Methods   A total of 84 participants (49.5 ± 16.2 years) with peripheral endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular risk factors were enrolled in this double-blind, randomized, controlled trial (69 completed the 4-month protocol—32 in the CJ group and 37 in the placebo group, respectively). Vascular responses to reactive hyperemia were measured non-invasively by peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stained for EPC markers, as well as osteocalcin, and counted by flow cytometry. Results   Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. The effect of CJ on peripheral endothelial function and on circulating EPC counts (CD34 + /CD133 + /KDR + ) did not change during the study. A high percentage of EPCs expressed osteocalcin (59.4 ± 35.7%). CJ, as compared to placebo, induced a decrease in the fraction of EPCs expressing osteocalcin (−8.64 ± 48.98 and 19.13 ± 46.11%, respectively, p  = 0.019). Systemic levels of the adhesion marker ICAM correlated significantly with the number of EPCs expressing osteocalcin. Conclusions   The study demonstrated that long-term supplementation of polyphenol-rich CJ did not improve peripheral endothelial function. However, the decrease in the fraction of osteocalcin+ EPCs suggests a potential beneficial effect of polyphenol-rich CJ. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0334-4 Authors Andreas J. Flammer, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Elizabeth A. Martin, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Mario Gössl, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA R. Jay Widmer, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Ryan J. Lennon, Biomedical Statistics, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA Jasmine A. Sexton, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Darrell Loeffler, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Sundeep Khosla, Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA Lilach O. Lerman, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA Amir Lerman, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic and College of Medicine, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Meat and fish consumption are associated with changes in the risk of chronic diseases. Intake is mainly assessed using self-reporting, as no true quantitative nutritional biomarker is available. The measurement of plasma fatty acids, often used as an alternative, is expensive and time-consuming. As meat and fish differ in their stable isotope ratios, δ 13 C and δ 15 N have been proposed as biomarkers. However, they have never been investigated in controlled human dietary intervention studies. Objective   In a short-term feeding study, we investigated the suitability of δ 13 C and δ 15 N in blood, urine and faeces as biomarkers of meat and fish intake. Methods   The dietary intervention study ( n  = 14) followed a randomised cross-over design with three eight-day dietary periods (meat, fish and half-meat–half-fish). In addition, 4 participants completed a vegetarian control period. At the end of each period, 24-h urine, fasting venous blood and faeces were collected and their δ 13 C and δ 15 N analysed. Results   There was a significant difference between diets in isotope ratios in faeces and urine samples, but not in blood samples (Kruskal–Wallis test, p  〈 0.0001). In pairwise comparisons, δ 13 C and δ 15 N were significantly higher in urine and faecal samples following a fish diet when compared with all other diets, and significantly lower following a vegetarian diet. There was no significant difference in isotope ratio between meat and half-meat–half-fish diets for blood, urine or faecal samples. Conclusions   The results of this study show that urinary and faecal δ 13 C and δ 15 N are suitable candidate biomarkers for short-term meat and fish intake. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0328-2 Authors Gunter G. C. Kuhnle, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 226, Reading, RG6 6AP UK Annemiek M. C. P. Joosen, MRC Dunn Human Nutrition Unit, Wellcome Trust/MRC Building, Cambridge, UK Catherine J. Kneale, McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK Tamsin C. O’Connell, Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Evaluate the hypothesis that relation of breast cancer associated with dietary fiber intakes varies by type of fiber, menopausal, and the tumor’s hormone receptor status. Methods   A case–control study of female breast cancer was conducted in Connecticut. A total of 557 incident breast cancer cases and 536 age frequency-matched controls were included in the analysis. Information on dietary intakes was collected through in-person interviews with a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and was converted into nutrient intakes. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated by unconditional logistic regression. Results   Among pre-menopausal women, higher intake of soluble fiber (highest versus lowest quartile of intake) was associated with a significantly reduced risk of breast cancer (OR = 0.38, 95% CI, 0.15–0.97, P trend  = 0.08). When further restricted to pre-menopausal women with ER − tumors, the adjusted OR for the highest quartile of intake was 0.15 (95% CI, 0.03–0.69, P trend  = 0.02) for soluble fiber intake. Among post-menopausal women, no reduced risk of breast cancer was observed for either soluble or insoluble fiber intakes or among ER + or ER − tumor groups. Conclusions   The results from this study show that dietary soluble fiber intake is associated with a significantly reduced risk of ER − breast cancer among pre-menopausal women. Additional studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm these results. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0305-9 Authors Qian Li, National Office of Cancer Prevention and Control, Cancer Institute and Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 17 Panjiayuannanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021 China Theodore R. Holford, Division of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA Yawei Zhang, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA Peter Boyle, International Prevention Research Institute (IPRI), Lyon, France Susan T. Mayne, Division of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA Min Dai, National Office of Cancer Prevention and Control, Cancer Institute and Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 17 Panjiayuannanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021 China Tongzhang Zheng, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   This study aimed firstly to investigate the contribution of maternal 25(OH) vitamin D to the association of maternal education and small-for-gestational-age birth weight (SGA) and secondly to examine whether the contribution of 25(OH) vitamin D differs by overweight, season, and maternal smoking. Methods   Logistic regression analysis was carried out in this study, using data of 2,274 pregnant women of Dutch ethnicity from the ABCD study, a population-based cohort study in the Netherlands. Maternal 25(OH) vitamin D was measured in early pregnancy. Stratified analyses were conducted for overweight, season of blood sampling, and smoking. Results   Low-educated women had lower 25(OH) vitamin D levels compared to high-educated women, and women in the lowest 25(OH) vitamin D quartile had a higher risk of SGA offspring. In addition, low-educated women had a higher risk of SGA offspring (OR 1.95 [95% CI: 1.20–3.14]). This association decreased with 7% after adjustment for 25(OH) vitamin D (OR 1.88 [95% CI 1.16–3.04]). In stratified analyses, adjustment for 25(OH) vitamin D resulted in a decrease in OR of about 17% in overweight women and about 15% in women who conceived in wintertime. Conclusions   25(OH) vitamin D appears to be a modifiable contributor to the association between low maternal education and SGA offspring, particularly in overweight women and women who conceived in the winter period. In those women, increasing the intake of vitamin D, either through dietary adaptation or through supplementation in order to achieve the recommendation, could be beneficial. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0327-3 Authors Gerrit van den Berg, Department of Pediatrics, EMGO Institute, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, 9D11 Secretariaat kindergeneeskunde, P.O. Box 7057, Amsterdam, 1007 MB The Netherlands Manon van Eijsden, Department of Epidemiology, Documentation and Health Promotion, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Tanja G. M. Vrijkotte, Department of Public Health, Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Reinoud J. B. J. Gemke, Department of Pediatrics, EMGO Institute, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, 9D11 Secretariaat kindergeneeskunde, P.O. Box 7057, Amsterdam, 1007 MB The Netherlands Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We performed a single-day cross-sectional study to assess the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency as well as folate status in healthy young female volunteers well educated with respect to health information. Methods   We assessed dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium, serum concentrations of 25-OH-vitamin D 3 , folate, red blood cell folate and other dietary, laboratory, and lifestyle parameters in 215 young healthy women (age 18–30 years) on a single day at the end of the winter months. Primary aim was to investigate the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D. Folic acid status was a secondary study aim. Results   Mean daily ingestion of vitamin D was 2.25 μg/day with a daily calcium intake of 749 mg/day. 6.9% had hypovitaminosis D (25-OH-vitamin D 3 〈30 nmol/L) and 89.3% were vitamin D insufficient (〈75 nmol/L). Preplanned subpopulation comparison (lower vs. upper quartile) revealed a significant negative correlation ( P  = 0.048) between plasma PTH and 25-OH-vitamin D 3 levels. Fifteen individuals (6.9%) were folic acid deficient (〈140 ng/mL RBC folate). Only 9.3% reached RBC folate concentrations regarded as optimal for the prevention of fetal neural tube defects (〉400 ng/mL). Conclusions   The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in healthy young women trained in health care professions is low but 89.3% can be classified as vitamin D insufficient in spring. Folate status can also be considered not sufficient. Considering the emerging role of higher vitamin D plasma levels for many health conditions, a timely correction of vitamin D status in the general Austrian population appears appropriate. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0281-5 Authors Stefan T. Kaehler, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Holger Baumgartner, Ethics Committee, Innsbruck Medical University, (non-voting member), Innrain 43, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Martina Jeske, Pharmacy Department, University Hospital Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Markus Anliker, Central Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Harald Schennach, Central Institute of Blood Transfusion and Immunology, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Peter Marschang, Department of Internal Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Anna Ratt, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Anna C. Colvin, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Jennifer Falk, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Astrid Gasser, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Julia Kirchebner, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Christine Scherer, Fhg-Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH, Innrain 98, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Anna E. Purtscher, Fhg-Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH, Innrain 98, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Andrea Griesmacher, Central Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Jörg Striessnig, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Peter-Mayrstr. 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Hypoxia and reoxygenation (H/R) occur in a wide variety of important clinical conditions such as myocardial infarction. H/R injury is a complex phenomenon involving not only intracellular damage processes but also an injurious inflammatory response. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, has long been proved to be protective against several types of cardiovascular disease. However, its beneficial effect during H/R is inconclusive. In this study, we employed an in vitro model to examine whether DHA is protective against H/R-induced cell damage in human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMCs). Methods   HCASMCs in the absence or presence of DHA (1, 3, 10, and 30 μM) were subjected to control or H/R treatment using a modular incubator chamber to create hypoxic condition. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Spectrophotometric and spectrofluorometric assays were used to measure the generation of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively. Inflammatory cytokines were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Intracellular calcium mobilization was estimated microfluorimetrically using calcium indicator dye, fura 2-acetomethyl ester. Results   Hypoxia/reoxygenation caused significant injury in cultured HCASMCs. DHA at low concentrations (1, 3, and 10 μM) did not afford protection, whereas at 30 μM, it caused deleterious effects, presumably by enhancing the production of NO, ROS, IL-1β, and IL-6 and altering the intracellular calcium dynamics. Conclusions   Our results do not support the protective function of DHA in H/R-injured coronary arterial smooth muscle cells. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0278-0 Authors Guan-Ming Feng, Department of Plastic Surgery, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC Jia-Huei Chen, Institute of Physiology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC Cheng-I Lin, Institute of Physiology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC Jung-Mou Yang, Department of Emergency Medicine, Cardinal Tien Hospital, Sindian, New Taipei, Taiwan, ROC Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Plant sterols (PS) are well known for their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-lowering effect. Until recently, they were believed to have little or no impact on blood triglycerides (TG). However, studies taken individually were possibly lacking statistical power to detect modest TG decreases. This study was performed to quantify the TG-lowering effect of PS by pooling individual subject data from 12 randomised controlled trials that investigated the effects of PS on blood lipids. Methods   The main outcome variable was the control-adjusted PS effect on relative (%) and absolute (mmol/L) changes in TG. The relative and absolute changes in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were also assessed. Differences in changes of serum lipid concentrations between PS and control treatments were estimated by an ANCOVA using a random effect model which included PS intake (active or control), study and predefined subject characteristics. Results   The twelve randomised controlled trials included in total 935 hypercholesterolaemic subjects not preselected based on their baseline TG concentrations. In most studies, the PS dose ranged between 1.6 and 2.5 g/day. PS intake significantly lowered serum TG by 6.0% (95% CI: −10.7, −1.2) or 0.12 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.20, −0.04). No significant interaction was observed between PS intake and baseline TG concentrations on relative changes, but, on absolute changes, interaction was significant with larger TG decreases observed with higher TG concentrations at baseline. No effects were observed on HDL-C concentrations. Conclusions   These results show that PS exert a modest TG-lowering effect which is dependent on baseline concentrations. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0297-x Authors Isabelle Demonty, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, P.O. Box 114, 3130 AC Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Rouyanne T. Ras, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, P.O. Box 114, 3130 AC Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Henk C. M. van der Knaap, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, P.O. Box 114, 3130 AC Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Linsie Meijer, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Peter L. Zock, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, P.O. Box 114, 3130 AC Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Johanna M. Geleijnse, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Elke A. Trautwein, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, P.O. Box 114, 3130 AC Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We investigated whether group-level bias of a 24-h recall estimate of protein and potassium intake, as compared to biomarkers, varied across European centers and whether this was influenced by characteristics of individuals or centers. Methods   The combined data from EFCOVAL and EPIC studies included 14 centers from 9 countries ( n  = 1,841). Dietary data were collected using a computerized 24-h recall (EPIC-Soft). Nitrogen and potassium in 24-h urine collections were used as reference method. Multilevel linear regression analysis was performed, including individual-level (e.g., BMI) and center-level (e.g., food pattern index) variables. Results   For protein intake, no between-center variation in bias was observed in men while it was 5.7% in women. For potassium intake, the between-center variation in bias was 8.9% in men and null in women. BMI was an important factor influencing the biases across centers ( p  〈 0.01 in all analyses). In addition, mode of administration ( p  = 0.06 in women) and day of the week ( p  = 0.03 in men and p  = 0.06 in women) may have influenced the bias in protein intake across centers. After inclusion of these individual variables, between-center variation in bias in protein intake disappeared for women, whereas for potassium, it increased slightly in men (to 9.5%). Center-level variables did not influence the results. Conclusion   The results suggest that group-level bias in protein and potassium (for women) collected with 24-h recalls does not vary across centers and to a certain extent varies for potassium in men. BMI and study design aspects, rather than center-level characteristics, affected the biases across centers. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0279-z Authors Sandra P. Crispim, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Anouk Geelen, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Jeanne H. M. de Vries, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Heinz Freisling, Dietary Exposure Assessment Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150, cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France Olga W. Souverein, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Paul J. M. Hulshof, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Marga C. Ocke, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands Hendriek Boshuizen, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Lene F. Andersen, Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway Jiri Ruprich, Department for Food Safety and Nutrition, National Institute of Public Health, Brno, Czech Republic Willem De Keizer, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University College Ghent, Ghent, Belgium Inge Huybrechts, Dietary Exposure Assessment Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150, cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France Lionel Lafay, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES), Paris, France Maria S. de Magistris, Department of Public Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Federico II, Naples, Italy Fulvio Ricceri, Human Genetics Foundation (HUGEF), Turin, Italy Rosario Tumino, Cancer Registry and Histopathology Unit, “Civile M.P.Arezzo” Hospital, Ragusa, Italy Vittorio Krogh, Nutritional Epidemiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy H. Bas Bueno-de-Mesquita, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands Joline W. J. Beulens, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands Marie-Christine Boutron-Ruault, Inserm, Centre for Research in Epidemiology and Population Health, Villejuif, France Androniki Naska, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, WHO Collaborating Center for Food and Nutrition Policies, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece Francesca L. Crowe, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Cancer Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK Heiner Boeing, Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Potsdam, Rehbrücke, Germany Alison McTaggart, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK Rudolf Kaaks, Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany Pieter van’t Veer, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands Nadia Slimani, Dietary Exposure Assessment Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150, cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The objective was to confirm the anti-obesity activity of a silk peptide (SP) and a silkworm pupa peptide (SPP) in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and to elucidate their action mechanism(s) in a preadipocyte culture system. Methods   In an in vitro mechanistic study, the differentiation and maturation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were stimulated with insulin (5 μg/mL), and effects of SP and SPP on the adipogenesis of mature adipocytes were assessed. In an in vivo anti-obesity study, male C57BL/6 mice were fed an HFD containing SP or SPP (0.3, 1.0, or 3.0%) for 8 weeks, and blood and tissue parameters of obesity were analyzed. Results   Hormonal stimulation of preadipocytes led to a 50–70% increase in adipogenesis. Polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses revealed increases in adipogenesis-specific genes (leptin and Acrp30) and proteins (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and Acrp30). The hormone-induced adipogenesis and activated gene expression was substantially inhibited by treatment with SP and SPP (1–50 μg/mL). The HFD markedly increased body weight gain by increasing the weight of epididymal and mesenteric fat. Body and fat weights were significantly reduced by SP and SPP, in which decreases in the area of abdominal adipose tissue and the size of epididymal adipocytes were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and microscopic examination, respectively. Long-term HFD caused hepatic lipid accumulation and increased blood triglycerides and cholesterol, in addition to their regulatory factors Acrp30 and leptin. However, SP and SPP recovered the concentrations of Acrp30 and leptin, and attenuated steatosis. Conclusions   SP and SPP inhibit the differentiation of preadipocytes and adipogenesis by modulating signal transduction pathways and improve HFD-induced obesity by reducing lipid accumulation and the size of adipocytes. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0280-6 Authors Sun Hee Lee, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Dongsun Park, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Goeun Yang, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Dae-Kwon Bae, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Yun-Hui Yang, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Tae Kyun Kim, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Dajeong Kim, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Jangbeen Kyung, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Sungho Yeon, Department of Food Science and Technology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea Kyo Chul Koo, Worldway Co., Ltd., Jeoneui, Korea Jeong-Yong Lee, Worldway Co., Ltd., Jeoneui, Korea Seock-Yeon Hwang, Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Korea Seong Soo Joo, Division of Marine Molecular Biotechnology, Gangneung-Wonju National University, 7 Jukheongil, Gangneung, Gangwon 210-702, Korea Yun-Bae Kim, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 52 Naesudongro (Gaesin-dong), Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Korea Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We examined whether high doses of folic acid and iron supplementation in early-to-mid pregnancy affect the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age neonates, in the mother–child cohort in Crete, Greece (Rhea study). Methods   We included 1,279 women with singleton pregnancies with complete data on supplements use in early-to-mid pregnancy and birth outcomes. Anthropometric measurements at birth were obtained from medical records. Red blood cell folate concentrations in cord blood were measured in a subsample of the study population ( n  = 58). Results   Sixty-six percent of the study participants reported high doses of supplemental folic acid use (5 mg/day), while 21 % reported excessive doses of folic acid use (〉5 mg/day) in early-to-mid pregnancy. Daily intake of 5-mg supplemental folic acid was associated with a 31 % decrease in the risk of preterm birth (RR, 0.69; 95 % CI, 0.44, 0.99), 60 % decrease in the risk of delivering a low birth weight neonate (RR, 0.40; 95 % CI, 0.21, 0.76), and 66 % decrease in the risk of delivering a small for gestational age (SGA) neonate (RR, 0.34; 95 % CI, 0.16, 0.73). Daily doses of iron supplementation more than 100 mg were associated with a twofold increased risk for SGA neonates (RR, 2.14; 95 % CI, 0.99, 5.97). Conclusion   These findings suggest that high daily doses of supplementary folic acid in early-to-mid pregnancy may be protective for preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age neonates, while high daily doses of supplementary iron may be harmful for fetal growth. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0339-z Authors Eleni Papadopoulou, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology, Barcelona, Spain Nikolaos Stratakis, Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical School, University of Crete, PO Box 2208, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece Theano Roumeliotaki, Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical School, University of Crete, PO Box 2208, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece Katerina Sarri, Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical School, University of Crete, PO Box 2208, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece Domenic F. Merlo, National Cancer Research Institute, Genoa, Italy Manolis Kogevinas, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology, Barcelona, Spain Leda Chatzi, Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical School, University of Crete, PO Box 2208, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   The use of rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis ) leaves and their constituents as a source of dietary antioxidants and flavoring agents is continuously growing. Carnosol and carnosic acid, two major components of rosemary extracts, have shown activity for cancer prevention and therapy. Aim of the study   In this study, we investigate the cytotoxic and anti-angiogenic activities of carnosol and carnosic acid, in order to get further insight into their mechanism of action. Results   Our results demonstrate that the mentioned diterpenes inhibit certain functions of endothelial cells, namely, differentiation, proliferation, migration and proteolytic capability. Our data indicate that their growth inhibitory effect, exerted on proliferative endothelial and tumor cells, could be due to, at least in part, an induction of apoptosis. Inhibition of the mentioned essential steps of in vitro angiogenesis agrees with the observed inhibition of the in vivo angiogenesis, substantiated by using the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Conclusions   The anti-angiogenic activity of carnosol and carnosic acid could contribute to the chemopreventive, antitumoral and antimetastatic activities of rosemary extracts and suggests their potential in the treatment of other angiogenesis-related malignancies. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0289-x Authors Auxiliadora López-Jiménez, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain Melissa García-Caballero, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain Miguel Ángel Medina, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain Ana R. Quesada, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We aimed to investigate the association of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) with cardiometabolic risk. Methods   In this cross-sectional study, 21,038 men and 15,604 women who participated in a health check-up were included. Results   In both men and women, the area under the curve (AUC) of WHtR was significantly greater than that of BMI or WC in the prediction of diabetes, hypertension, high total cholesterol, high triglycerides, and low HDL-cholesterol ( P  〈 0.05 for all). The AUC for WHtR in the prediction of metabolic syndrome (MS) was also highest in the women ( P  〈 0.05). After adjustment for potential confounders, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for MS for each standard deviation increase in BMI, WHtR, and WC were 1.47 (1.46–1.49), 1.32 (1.31–1.33), and 1.19 (1.18–1.19), respectively. Finally, patients of either sex with a normal BMI or WC level, but with an elevated WHtR, had higher levels of various cardiometabolic risk factors in comparison with their normal BMI or WC, but low WHtR, counterparts ( P  〈 0.05 for all). Conclusion   Among Taiwanese adults, a WHtR greater than 0.5 is a simple, yet effective indicator of centralized obesity and associated cardiometabolic risk, even among individuals deemed ‘healthy’ according to BMI and WC. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0286-0 Authors Wen-Cheng Li, Department of Occupation Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung Branch, No. 222, Maijin Rd., Keelung, 200 Taiwan I-Chuan Chen, Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi Branch, No. 6, West Sec. Chia-Pu Rd, Put-Zu, Chiayi, 600 Taiwan Yu-Che Chang, Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, No. 5, Fu-Hsing Street, Guei-Shan, Taoyuan, 333 Taiwan Song-Seng Loke, Department of Family Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Branch, No. 123, Dapi Rd., Niaosong Township, Kaohsiung County, 833 Taiwan Shih-Hao Wang, Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112 Taiwan Kuang-Yu Hsiao, Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi Branch, No. 6, West Sec. Chia-Pu Rd, Put-Zu, Chiayi, 600 Taiwan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Erratum to: Soy intake and risk of type 2 diabetes in Chinese Singaporeans Content Type Journal Article Category Erratum Pages 1-1 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0290-4 Authors Noel T. Mueller, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA Andrew O. Odegaard, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA Myron D. Gross, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA Woon-Puay Koh, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Mimi C. Yu, The Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA Jian-Min Yuan, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA Mark A. Pereira, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is highly prevalent in Western older populations. MetS is an intriguing entity, because it includes potentially reversible risk factors. Some studies have suggested an inverse correlation between MetS and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), but data regarding older subjects are scanty and conflicting. The aim of this study was to assess the association between HRQoL and MetS in older, unselected community-dwelling subjects. Methods   We analyzed data of 356 subjects aged 75+ living in Tuscania (Italy). HRQoL was assessed using the Health Utilities Index, Mark 3. Diagnosis of MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program’s ATP-III criteria. Results   MetS was reported by 137 (38%) participants. According to linear regression analysis, MetS was associated with significantly better HRQoL in men ( B  = 0.19 95% CI = 0.06–0.32; p  = 0.006), but not in women. Also, when the regression model was analyzed in men, MetS was associated with better HRQoL ( B  = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.01–0.32; p  = 0.035) only among participants aged 80+. No significant associations were found in men between HRQoL and any of the single components of MetS. Conclusions   MetS is not associated with worse HRQoL among community-dwelling elderly; it is associated with significantly better HRQoL among the oldest men. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0337-1 Authors Alice Laudisio, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Emanuele Marzetti, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Livia Antonica, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Francesco Pagano, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Davide L. Vetrano, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Roberto Bernabei, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Giuseppe Zuccalà, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Erratum to: Cardioprotective and hepatoprotective effects of ellagitannins from European oak bark ( Quercus petraea L.) extract in rats Content Type Journal Article Category Erratum Pages 1-1 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0335-3 Authors Sunil K. Panchal, Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia Lindsay Brown, Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To compare the effects of two low-fat, hypoenergetic diets differing in carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, on strength and aerobic capacity measures in overweight and obese men. Methods   In a parallel design, 56 men (age, 45.5 ± 8.7 years; BMI, 33.6 ± 3.9 kg/m 2 ) were randomly assigned to a low-fat, energy-restricted diet (7,000 kJ/day) with either high protein (HP: protein/carbohydrate/fat % energy, 35:40:25) or standard protein (SP, 17:58:25). Body weight, body composition, muscle strength and aerobic capacity were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Results   Forty-two participants completed the study (HP, n  = 21; SP, n  = 21). Both groups experienced similar reductions in body weight (HP, −10.7 ± 5.3 kg [−9.8%]; SP, −8.7 ± 3.5 kg [−8.4%]) and fat-free mass (HP, −2.8 ± 3.6 kg; SP, −3.2 ± 2.7 kg; P  〈 0.001 time; P  〉 0.14 time × group interaction). There was a trend for a greater reduction in fat mass in the HP diet group, (−7.7 ± 4.3 kg [−21.2%] vs. −5.4 ± 3.3 kg [−15.1%]; P  〈 0.001 time; P  = 0.06 time × group interaction). Absolute peak oxygen uptake did not change in either group ( P  = 0.39 time; P  = 0.50 time × group interaction). Overall, in both groups, relative peak oxygen uptake increased (2.9 ± 2.8 ml kg −1  min −1 [8.9%]), peak isometric knee extensor strength increased (14.1 ± 35.7 Nm [7.1%]) and peak handgrip strength decreased (−1.6 ± 4.1 kg [−3%]) ( P  ≤ 0.02 time for all), with no diet effect ( P  ≤ 0.23 time × group interaction). Conclusion   In overweight and obese men, both a HP and SP diet reduced body weight and improved body composition with similar effects on strength and aerobic capacity. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0338-0 Authors Thomas P. Wycherley, Division of Health Sciences, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia Jonathan D. Buckley, Division of Health Sciences, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia Manny Noakes, Preventative Health Flagship, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Food and Nutritional Sciences, PO Box 10041 BC, Adelaide, 5000 Australia Peter M. Clifton, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Adelaide, Australia Grant D. Brinkworth, Preventative Health Flagship, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Food and Nutritional Sciences, PO Box 10041 BC, Adelaide, 5000 Australia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Codex documents may be used as educational and consensus materials for member governments. Also, the WTO SPS Agreement recognizes Codex as the presumptive international authority on food issues. Nutrient bioavailability is a critical factor in determining the ability of nutrients to provide beneficial effects. Bioavailability also influences the quantitative dietary requirements that are the basis of nutrient intake recommendations and NRVs. Health claims   Codex, EFSA and some national regulatory authorities have established guidelines or regulations that will permit several types of health claims. The scientific basis for claims has been established by the US FDA and EFSA, but not yet by Codex. Evidence-based nutrition differs from evidence-based medicine, but the differences are only recently gaining recognition. Health claims on foods may provide useful information to consumers, but many will interpret the information to mean that they can rely upon the food or nutrient to eliminate a disease risk. Nutrient reference values   NRVs are designed to provide a quantitative basis for comparing the nutritive values of foods, helping to illustrate how specific foods fit into the overall diet. The INL-98 and the mean of adult male and female values provide NRVs that are sufficient when used as targets for individual intakes by most adults. World Trade Organization agreements   WTO recognizes Codex as the primary international authority on food issues. Current regulatory schemes based on recommended dietary allowances are trade restrictive. A substantial number of decisions by the EFSA could lead to violation of WTO agreements. Content Type Journal Article Category Supplement Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0306-8 Authors Peter J. Aggett, University of Lancaster, Lancaster, Lancashire, UK John Hathcock, Council for Responsible Nutrition, Washington, DC, USA David Jukes, University of Reading, Reading, UK David P. Richardson, University of Reading, Reading, UK Philip C. Calder, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK Heike Bischoff-Ferrari, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Theresa Nicklas, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA Stefan Mühlebach, Vifor Pharma, Ltd, Glattbrugg, Switzerland Oran Kwon, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea Janine Lewis, Food Standards Australia New Zealand, Canberra, Australia Maurits J. F. Lugard, Sidley Austin LLP, Brussels, Belgium Peter Prock, European Nutraceutical Association, Basel, Switzerland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To investigate the influence of dietary proteins (casein, soy protein) and skimmed milk on the plasma kinetics of green tea (GT) catechins. Methods   In a randomized cross-over design with one-week intervals, 24 healthy normal-weight women consumed a test drink containing 1.75 g GT extract with or without the addition of different proteins. Treatments were GT (control), GT with skimmed milk (GT + M), GT with caseinate (GT + CS), or GT with soy protein (GT + S). Venous blood samples were taken before and several times during a period of 4.5 h after consumption of the test drink. Plasma concentrations of catechins were analyzed by HPLC with electrochemical detection. Results   Compared to control, consumption of GT with milk, caseinate, or soy protein significantly reduced the bioavailability (mean area under the plasma concentration–time curve) of total catechins (means ± SEM; GT + M, 87 ± 5%; GT + CS, 79 ± 5%; GT + S, 88 ± 4%), epigallocatechin gallate (GT + M, 68 ± 4%; GT + CS, 63 ± 5%; GT + S, 76 ± 5%), and epicatechin gallate (GT + M, 68 ± 5%; GT + CS, 66 ± 6%; GT + S, 77 ± 6%), while the bioavailability of non-galloylated catechins such as epigallocatechin (GT + M, 134 ± 9%; GT + CS, 118 ± 9 %; GT + S, 123 ± 8%) and epicatechin (GT + M, 125 ± 10%; GT + CS, 114 ± 11%; GT + S, 110 ± 8%) significantly increased. No significant differences in bioavailability of GT catechins were observed between the treatments GT + M, GT + CS, or GT + S. Conclusion   Simultaneous ingestion of dietary proteins reduces the bioavailability of galloylated catechins from GT in humans. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0330-8 Authors Sarah Egert, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Nutritional Physiology, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 11-13, 53115 Bonn, Germany Jane Tereszczuk, Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany Silvia Wein, Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany Manfred James Müller, Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany Jan Frank, Institute of Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany Gerald Rimbach, Department of Food Science, Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany Siegfried Wolffram, Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   At relatively low concentrations, flavanols induce inconsistent effects on isolated arterial tone, sometimes explained as being due to a structure–activity relationship. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of two flavanols at different doses on arterial functional state. Methods   The effects of two catechins, (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and (−)-epicatechin (EP), on rat-isolated aorta tone were investigated on resting tension and on precontracted preparations, both in the presence and in the absence of endothelium. Results   At resting tension, endothelium-intact preparations, EGCG and EP (0.01–10 μM), induced a slight concentration-dependent, non-significant contraction. On endothelium-denuded preparations, both EGCG and EP induced a concentration-dependent contraction (significance at 0.1 and 1 μM concentrations of the two compounds, respectively). In phenylephrine (PE) (1 μM) precontracted, endothelium-intact preparations, EGCG and EP (0.01–10 μM), induced a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation, reaching significance at 1 μM concentration of both agonists. On endothelium-denuded preparations, EGCG and EP did not significantly affect PE (0.3 μM)-induced tone. In endothelium-intact precontracted preparations, Nω nitro- l -arginine (L-NNA), a nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity inhibitor, abolished the vasorelaxant effect of EGCG and EP (0.01–10 μM). At high concentrations, EGCG and EP (100 μM) elicited a marked relaxation. This was significantly larger in the presence than in the absence of endothelium or in the presence of L-NNA. Conclusions   Our findings highlight the important role played by an endothelium/NO-mechanism in the regulation of basal tone and in both mediating vasorelaxation and counteracting vasoconstriction induced by low concentrations of flavanols in rat thoracic aorta. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0320-x Authors Annalisa Aggio, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Davide Grassi, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Eugenia Onori, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Antonio D’Alessandro, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Francesco Masedu, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Marco Valenti, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Claudio Ferri, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, University of L’Aquila, Viale S. Salvatore, Delta 6 Medicina, 67100 Coppito, AQ, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid), a molecule obtained from diet, is involved in bile acid conjugation, blood pressure regulation, anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation. We performed the first prospective study of taurine and CHD risk. Methods   We conducted a case–control study nested in the New York University Women’s Health Study to evaluate the association between circulating taurine levels and risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Taurine was measured in two yearly pre-diagnostic serum samples of 223 CHD cases and 223 matched controls and averaged for a more reliable measurement of long-term taurine levels. Results   Mean serum taurine was positively related to age and dietary intake of poultry, niacin, vitamin B1, fiber and iron, and negatively related to dietary intake of saturated fat (all p values ≤0.05). There was no statistically significant association between serum taurine levels and the risk of CHD in the overall study population. The adjusted ORs for CHD in increasing taurine tertiles were 1.0 (reference), 0.85 (95% CI, 0.51–1.40) and 0.66 (0.39–1.13; p for trend = 0.14). There was a significant inverse association between serum taurine and CHD risk among women with high total serum cholesterol (〉250 mg/dL) (adjusted OR = 0.39 (0.19–0.83) for the third versus first tertile; p for trend = 0.02) but not among those with low total serum cholesterol ( p for interaction = 0.01). The data suggest a possible inverse association of serum taurine with diabetes and hypertension risk. Conclusions   The findings suggest that high levels of taurine may be protective against CHD among individuals with high serum cholesterol levels. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0300-6 Authors Oktawia P. Wójcik, Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 650 First Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10016-3240, USA Karen L. Koenig, Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 650 First Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10016-3240, USA Anne Zeleniuch-Jacquotte, Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 650 First Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10016-3240, USA Camille Pearte, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA Max Costa, Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 650 First Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10016-3240, USA Yu Chen, New York University Cancer Institute, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To investigate the hepato-protective properties and underlying mechanisms of SAMC in a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rat model. Methods   Female rats were fed with a diet comprising highly unsaturated fat diet (30% fish oil) for 8 weeks to develop NAFLD with or without an intraperitoneal injection of 200 mg/kg SAMC three times per week. After euthanasia, blood and liver samples of rats were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. Results   Co-treatment of SAMC attenuated NAFLD-induced liver injury, fat accumulation, collagen formation and free fatty acids (FFAs). At the molecular level, SAMC decreased the lipogenesis marker and restored the lipolysis marker. SAMC also reduced the expression levels of pro-fibrogenic factors and diminished liver oxidative stress partly through the inhibition in the activity of cytochrome P450 2E1-dependent pathway. NAFLD-induced inflammation was also partially mitigated by SAMC treatment via reduction in the pro-inflammatory mediators, chemokines and suppressor of cytokine signaling. The protective effect of SAMC is also shown partly through the restoration of altered phosphorylation status of FFAs-dependent MAP kinase pathways and diminished in the nuclear transcription factors (NF-κB and AP-1) activity during NAFLD development. Conclusions   SAMC is a novel hepato-protective agent against NAFLD caused by abnormal liver functions. Garlic or garlic derivatives could be considered as a potent food supplement in the prevention of fatty liver disease. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0301-0 Authors Jia Xiao, Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, L1-41, Laboratory Block, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR Yick Pang Ching, Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, L1-41, Laboratory Block, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR Emily C. Liong, Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, L1-41, Laboratory Block, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR Amin A. Nanji, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada Man Lung Fung, Department of Physiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong George L. Tipoe, Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, L1-41, Laboratory Block, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Serum level of under-carboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) is considered a sensitive measure of vitamin K status, and ucOC levels are associated with bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk in elderly persons. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between ucOC and BMD in early menopausal women. Methods   The data reported here come from the enrolment in a double-blinded placebo-controlled randomized trial comprising 334 healthy Norwegian women between 50 and 60 years, 1–5 years after menopause, not using warfarin or medication known to affect bone metabolism. Total hip, femoral neck, lumbar spine, and total body BMD and serum level of ucOC and total osteocalcin were measured, and information of lifestyle was collected through questionnaires. The association between ucOC and BMD at all measurement sites was assessed by multiple regression analyses adjusting for possible confounding variables. Results   The absolute serum level of ucOC was significantly and negatively associated with BMD at all measurements sites, both in univariate analyses ( p  〈 0.01) and in multivariate analyses adjusting for years since menopause, smoking status and weight ( p  〈 0.01). However, serum ucOC, expressed as percentage of the total osteocalcin level, was not associated with BMD at any site. Conclusions   Achievement of adequate vitamin K nutritional intake is important, but ucOC expressed as percentage of total osteocalcin levels as reflection of vitamin K status does not seem to play a central role in determining BMD levels in early menopausal women. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0285-1 Authors Nina Emaus, Department of Health and Care Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway Nguyen D. Nguyen, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Osteoporosis and Bone Biology Research Program, Sydney, Australia Bjørg Almaas, Haukeland University Hospital, 5000 Bergen, Norway Gro K. Berntsen, The National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway Jacqueline R. Center, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Osteoporosis and Bone Biology Research Program, St. Vincent’s Hospital and University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Monika Christensen, Haukeland University Hospital, 5000 Bergen, Norway Clara G. Gjesdal, Haukeland University Hospital, 5000 Bergen, Norway Anne S. Grimsgaard, The National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway Tuan V. Nguyen, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Osteoporosis and Bone Biology Research Program and School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Laila Salomonsen, The National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway John A. Eisman, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Osteoporosis and Bone Biology Research Program, St. Vincent’s Hospital and University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Vinjar M. Fønnebø, The National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Diabetic glomerulosclerosis is the hardening of the renal glomeruli that can lead to kidney failure. In the early stage of glomerulosclerosis occur renal mesangial expansion and renal filtration dysfunction. Purple corn has been classified as a functional food and is rich in anthocyanins exerting potential disease-preventive activities. The in vitro study using human renal mesangial cells examined that anthocyanin-rich purple corn butanol fraction (PCB) can attenuate high glucose (HG)-promoted mesangial cell proliferation and matrix accumulation. Methods   Cells were cultured for 3 days in media containing 33 mM glucose in the presence of 1–20 μg/mL PCB. In the in vivo animal study, db/db mice were treated with 10 mg/kg anthocyanin-rich polyphenolic extracts of purple corn (PCE) for 8 weeks. Results   HG enhanced mesangial production of the fibrosis biomarkers of collagen IV and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which was markedly attenuated by adding PCB. Such mesangial fibrosis entailed interleukin-8 activation via eliciting Tyk2-STAT signaling pathway. PCB dampened HG-promoted mesangial hyperplasia that appeared to be attributed to increased expression of platelet-derived growth factor. The 8-week administration of PCE lowered plasma glucose level of db/db mice and ameliorated severe albuminuria. Moreover, PCE lessened collagen fiber accumulation in kidney glomeruli and CTGF expression via retarding TGF-β signaling. Protein expressions of nephrin and podocin, key proteins for filtration barrier function of the glomerular capillary wall, were repressed by treating mice with PCE. Conclusion   Purple corn may be a potent therapeutic agent for the treatment for diabetes-associated glomerulosclerosis accompanying proteinuria and kidney filtration dysfunction. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0274-4 Authors Jing Li, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Min-Kyung Kang, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Jin-Kyu Kim, Institute of Natural Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 200-702 Korea Jung-Lye Kim, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Sang-Wook Kang, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Soon Sung Lim, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Young-Hee Kang, Department of Food and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-702 South Korea Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The main objective of this study was to evaluate the association between dietary patterns and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its metabolic abnormalities among Lebanese adults, using data from a national nutrition survey. Methods   A cross-sectional analysis involving adults aged ≥18 years ( n  = 323) with no prior history of chronic diseases was conducted. Participants completed a brief sociodemographic and 61-item food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements and fasting blood samples were also obtained. The International Diabetes Federation criteria were used to classify study participants with the metabolic syndrome. Dietary patterns were identified by factor analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of extracted patterns with MetS and its metabolic abnormalities. Results   Out of 323 participants, 112 (34.6%) were classified as having MetS. Three dietary patterns were identified: “Fast Food/Dessert,” “Traditional Lebanese,” and “High Protein.” Compared with participants in the lowest quintile of the Fast Food/Dessert pattern, those in the highest quintile had significantly higher odds for MetS (OR, 3.13; 95% CI: 1.36–7.22) and hyperglycemia (OR, 3.81; 95% CI: 159–9.14). Subjects with the highest intake of the High Protein pattern had an increased risk for hypertension (OR, 2.98; 95% CI: 1.26–7.02). The Traditional Lebanese pattern showed no association with MetS or its components. Conclusions   The findings of this study demonstrate a positive association of the Fast Food/Dessert pattern with MetS and hyperglycemia among Lebanese adults. These results may guide the development of improved preventive nutrition interventions in this adult population. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0291-3 Authors F. Naja, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon L. Nasreddine, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon L. Itani, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon N. Adra, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon A. M. Sibai, Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon N. Hwalla, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, P.O.Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107-2020 Lebanon Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Plant sterol (PS)-enriched food products are known to reduce plasma cholesterol concentrations by inhibiting the absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol. The physiological responses induced by food intake in the gastrointestinal tract are all important factors in determining the overall effect of PS. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the effect of timing of consumption of a plant sterol (PS)–containing yoghurt drink relative to meal ingestion on gastric emptying (GE) of the drink and gallbladder (GB) volume. Methods   This is a randomized, single-centre, controlled study with crossover design in 12 healthy male volunteers. Three treatments were tested; a 100 mL PS yoghurt drink (labeled with 1,000 mg acetaminophen) was consumed 45 min prior to, during and 45 min after a solid meal. Plasma samples were taken, and gallbladder volumes were measured at baseline and at regular intervals during a 6-h study period. Results   When consumed before the consumption of a meal, the yoghurt drink exhibited fast GE. The solid meal intake caused a significant contraction of the gallbladder. Consumption of the PS drink before the meal had no significant effect on GB volume as compared to baseline and compared to during and after meal consumption. Conclusions   The PS-containing drink, which empties fast from the stomach, does not sufficiently trigger gallbladder contraction without co-ingestion of a solid meal and in consequence does not induce the necessary physiological changes needed to allow PS to exhibit their effect on inhibiting cholesterol absorption. Content Type Journal Article Category Short Communication Pages 1-4 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0440-3 Authors D. Keszthelyi, Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands D. Knol, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, Olivier van Noortlaan 120, 3133 AT Vlaardingen, The Netherlands F. J. Troost, Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands M. van Avesaat, Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands M. Foltz, Unilever R&D Vlaardingen, Olivier van Noortlaan 120, 3133 AT Vlaardingen, The Netherlands A. A. M. Masclee, Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Biological effects of marine oils, fish oil (FO) and krill oil (KO), are mostly attributed to the high content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), predominantly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The study was aimed to investigate the influence of FO and KO on lipid homeostasis and inflammation in an animal model of persistent low-grade exposure to human tumor necrosis factor α (hTNF-α) and to evaluate whether these effects depend on the structural forms of EPA and DHA [triacylglycerols (TAG) vs. phospholipids]. Methods   Male C57BL/6 hTNF-α mice were fed for 6 weeks a high-fat control diet (24.50 % total fats, w/w) or high-fat diets containing either FO or KO at similar doses of n-3 PUFAs (EPA: 5.23 vs. 5.39 wt%, DHA: 2.82 vs. 2.36 wt% of total fatty acids). Results   We found that KO, containing bioactive n-3 PUFAs in the form of phospholipids, was capable of modulating lipid metabolism by lowering plasma levels of TAG and cholesterol and stimulating the mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation, as well as improving the overall carnitine turnover. Though the administration of FO was not as effective as KO in the lowering of plasma TAG, FO significantly improved the levels of all cholesterol classes in plasma. Except from the increase in the levels of IL-17 in FO-fed mice and a trend to decrease in MCP-1 levels in KO-fed animals, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were not substantially different between treatment groups. Conclusion   Our findings demonstrate that FO and KO are comparable dietary sources of n-3 PUFAs. However, when quantitatively similar doses of n-3 PUFAs are administered, KO seems to have a greater potential to promote lipid catabolism. The effect of dietary oils on the levels of inflammatory markers in hTNF-α transgenic mice fed a high-fat diet needs further investigations. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0441-2 Authors Natalya Filipchuk Vigerust, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway Bodil Bjørndal, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway Pavol Bohov, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway Trond Brattelid, National Institute of Fisheries, NIFES, 5804 Bergen, Norway Asbjørn Svardal, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway Rolf Kristian Berge, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   It is relatively unknown how different dietary components, in partnership, regulate gene expression linked to colon pathology. It has been suggested that the combination of various bioactive components present in a plant-based diet is crucial for their potential anticancer activities. This study employed a combinatorial chemopreventive strategy to investigate the impact of selenium and/or isothiocyanates on DNA methylation processes in colorectal carcinoma cell lines. Methods   To gain insights into the epigenetic-mediated changes in gene expression in response to these dietary constituents cultured Caco-2 and HCT116 cells were exposed for up to 12 days to different concentrations of selenium methylselenocysteine and selenite (ranging from 0.2 to 5 μM) either alone or in combination with sulforaphane and iberin (ranging from 6 to 8 μM), and changes to gene-specific ( p16 INK4A and ESR1 ), global (LINE-1) methylation and DNMT expression were quantified using real-time PCR-based assays. Results   No effects on the methylation of CpG islands in ESR1 , p16 INK4A or of LINE-1, a marker of global genomic methylation, were observed after exposure of Caco-2 and HCT116 cells to selenium or isothiocyanates. Only transient changes in DNMT mRNA expression, which occurred mostly in the treatment groups containing isothiocyanates, were observed, and these occurred only for specific DNMT transcripts and did not lead to the modification of the aberrant methylation status present in these cells. Conclusion   These data suggest that treatment for colon cancer cells with selenium and/or isothiocyanates, either individually or in combination does not impact abnormal methylation patterns of key genes involved in the complex multistep process of colon carcinogenesis in vitro. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0442-1 Authors Lawrence N. Barrera, Department of Nutrition, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ UK Ian T. Johnson, Institute of Food Research, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UA UK Yongping Bao, Department of Nutrition, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ UK Aedin Cassidy, Department of Nutrition, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ UK Nigel J. Belshaw, Institute of Food Research, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UA UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background and aims   Protein malnutrition affects resistance to infection by impairing the inflammatory response, modifying the function of effector cells, such as macrophages. Recent studies have revealed that glutamine—a non-essential amino acid, which could become conditionally essential in some situations like trauma, infection, post-surgery and sepsis—is able to modulate the synthesis of cytokines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of glutamine on the expression of proteins involved in the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway of peritoneal macrophages from malnourished mice. Methods   Two-month-old male Balb/c mice were submitted to protein-energy malnutrition ( n  = 10) with a low-protein diet containing 2 % protein, whereas control mice ( n  = 10) were fed a 12 % protein-containing diet. The haemogram and analysis of plasma glutamine and corticosterone were evaluated. Peritoneal macrophages were pre-treated in vitro with glutamine (0, 0.6, 2 and 10 mmol/L) for 24 h and then stimulated with 1.25 μg LPS for 30 min, and the synthesis of TNF-α and IL-1α and the expression of proteins related to the NF-κB pathway were evaluated. Results   Malnourished animals had anaemia, leucopoenia, lower plasma glutamine and increased corticosterone levels. TNF-α production of macrophages stimulated with LPS was significantly lower in cells from malnourished animals when cultivated in supraphysiological (2 and 10 mmol/L) concentrations of glutamine. Further, glutamine has a dose-dependent effect on the activation of macrophages, in both groups, when stimulated with LPS, inducing a decrease in TNF-α and IL-1α production and negatively modulating the NF-κB signalling pathway. Conclusions   These data lead us to infer that the protein malnutrition state interferes with the activation of macrophages and that higher glutamine concentrations, in vitro, have the capacity to act negatively in the NF-κB signalling pathway. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0443-0 Authors Fabiana da Silva Lima, Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580 Bloco 17, Sao Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil Marcelo Macedo Rogero, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Mayara Caldas Ramos, Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580 Bloco 17, Sao Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil Primavera Borelli, Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580 Bloco 17, Sao Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil Ricardo Ambrósio Fock, Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580 Bloco 17, Sao Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Animal and laboratory studies suggest that long-chain omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat found in fatty fish, may protect against carcinogenesis, but human studies on dietary intake of polyunsaturated fats and fish with endometrial cancer risk show mixed results. Methods   We evaluated the associations between endometrial cancer risk and intake of fatty acids and fish in a population-based sample of 556 incident cancer cases and 533 age-matched controls using multivariate unconditional logistic regression methods. Results   Although total n-3 fatty acid intake was not associated with endometrial cancer risk, higher intakes of eicosapentaenoic (EPA 20:5) and docosahexaenoic (DHA 22:6) fatty acids were significantly associated with lower risks (OR = 0.57, 95 % CI: 0.39–0.84; OR = 0.64, 95 % CI: 0.44–0.94; respectively) comparing extreme quartiles. The ratio of n-3:n-6 fatty acids was inversely associated with risk only on a continuous scale (OR = 0.84, 95 % CI: 0.71–0.99), while total fish intake was not associated with risk. Fish oil supplement use was significantly associated with reduced risk of endometrial cancer: OR = 0.63 (95 % CI: 0.45–0.88). Conclusions   Our results suggest that dietary intake of the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA in foods and supplements may have protective associations against the development of endometrial cancer. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0436-z Authors Hannah Arem, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Marian L. Neuhouser, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA Melinda L. Irwin, Yale School of Public Health, School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Brenda Cartmel, Yale School of Public Health, School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Lingeng Lu, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Harvey Risch, Yale School of Public Health, School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Susan T. Mayne, Yale School of Public Health, School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Herbert Yu, Yale School of Public Health, School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Active hexose-correlated compound (AHCC) is a commercial extract obtained from Basidiomycetes under controlled conditions, yielding a 74 % content in oligosaccharides, especially α-glucans. AHCC has a number of therapeutic effects, including intestinal anti-inflammatory activity. Bifidobacterium longum BB536 is a probiotic with potential health-promoting effect at the gut level. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the possibility of synergism between AHCC, which is believed to act as a prebiotic, and B. longum BB536. Methods   We used the trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid model (TNBS) of colitis in rats. AHCC (100 or 500 mg kg −1 ) and B. longum BB536 (5 × 10 6  CFU rat −1  day −1 ) were administered together or separately for 7 days prior to colitis induction and then for another 7 days and compared with control (noncolitic) and TNBS rats. Results   The results show that both treatments had intestinal anti-inflammatory activity separately, which was enhanced when used in combination, as shown by changes in body weight gain, colonic weight to length ratio, myeloperoxydase activity and iNOS expression. Interestingly, the association of AHCC 100 mg kg −1  +  B. longum BB536 showed the highest anti-inflammatory activity. Conclusions   Our data provide a preclinical experimental basis for the synergistic effect of AHCC and B. longum BB536 on inflammatory bowel disease. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0347-z Authors Borja Ocón, Department of Pharmacology, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Andrea Anzola, Department of Pharmacology, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Mercedes Ortega-González, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Antonio Zarzuelo, Department of Pharmacology, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain María D. Suárez, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Fermín Sánchez de Medina, Department of Pharmacology, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Olga Martínez-Augustin, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, CIBERehd, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Objective   There is increasing evidence that anorexia of aging can cause physical and mental impairment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between anorexia and sarcopenia in elderly persons aged 80 years or older. Methods   Data are from the baseline evaluation of 354 subjects enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study. The ilSIRENTE study is a prospective cohort study performed in the mountain community living in the Sirente geographic area (L’Aquila, Abruzzo) in Central Italy. We defined anorexia as the presence of loss of appetite and/or lower food intake. According to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) criteria, diagnosis of sarcopenia required the documentation of low muscle mass plus the documentation of either low muscle strength or low physical performance. The relationship between anorexia and sarcopenia was estimated by deriving odds ratios from the multiple logistic regression models considering sarcopenia as the dependent variable. Results   Nearly 21 % of the study sample showed symptoms of anorexia. Using the EWGSOP-suggested algorithm, 103 subjects (29.1 %) with sarcopenia were identified. Thirty-four (46.6 %) participants were affected by sarcopenia among subjects with anorexia compared to 69 subjects [24.6 %] without anorexia ( p  〈 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders including age, gender, functional and cognitive impairment, physical activity, urinary incontinence, comorbidity, congestive heart failure, COPD, depression, anti-cholinergic drugs, and TNF-α plasmatic levels, participants with anorexia had a higher risk of sarcopenia compared with non-anorexic subjects (HR 1.88, 95 % CI 1.01–3.51). Conclusions   Anorexia is common among community-dwelling older subjects in Italy. Our results suggest that among old–old subjects, anorexia is independently associated with sarcopenia. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0437-y Authors Francesco Landi, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Rosa Liperoti, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Andrea Russo, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Silvia Giovannini, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Matteo Tosato, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Christian Barillaro, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Ettore Capoluongo, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Roberto Bernabei, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Graziano Onder, Department of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Physiatry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Peptide YY (PYY) is a gastrointestinal hormone with physiological actions regulating appetite and energy homoeostasis. The cellular mechanisms by which nutrients stimulate PYY secretion from intestinal enteroendocrine cells are still being elucidated. Methods   This study comprehensively evaluated the suitability of intestinal STC-1 cells as an in vitro model of PYY secretion. PYY concentrations (both intracellular and in culture media) with other intestinal peptides (CCK, GLP-1 and GIP) demonstrated that PYY is a prominent product of STC-1 cells. Furthermore, acute and chronic PYY responses to 15 short (SCFAs)- and long-chain (LCFAs) dietary fatty acids were measured alongside parameters for DNA synthesis, cell viability and cytotoxicity. Results   We found STC-1 cells to be reliable secretors of PYY constitutively releasing PYY into cell culture media (but not into non-stimulatory buffer). We demonstrate for the first time that STC-1 cells produce PYY mRNA transcripts; that STC-1 cells produce specific time- and concentration-dependent PYY secretory responses to valeric acid; that linoleic acid and conjugated linoleic acid 9,11 (CLA 9,11) are potent PYY secretagogues; and that chronic exposure of SCFAs and LCFAs can be detrimental to STC-1 cells. Conclusions   Our studies demonstrate the potential usefulness of STC-1 cells as an in vitro model for investigating nutrient-stimulated PYY secretion in an acute setting. Furthermore, our discovery that CLA directly stimulates L-cells to secrete PYY indicates another possible mechanism contributing to the observed effects of dietary CLA on weight loss. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0439-9 Authors Katharine V. Hand, Institute of Agri-Food and Land Use, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, David Keir Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG UK Christine M. Bruen, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork, Ireland Fiona O’Halloran, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork, Ireland Harsh Panwar, Institute of Agri-Food and Land Use, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, David Keir Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG UK Danielle Calderwood, Institute of Agri-Food and Land Use, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, David Keir Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG UK Linda Giblin, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork, Ireland Brian D. Green, Institute of Agri-Food and Land Use, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, David Keir Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Procyanidins are extensively metabolized via phase-II and microbial enzymes. However, their distribution in the body is not well characterized. Aim   This study investigates the distribution of procyanidins (monomers and dimers) and their phase-II metabolites in plasma and tissues (thymus, heart, liver, testicle, lung, kidney, spleen and brain). Methods   Wistar rats were fed with 1 g of cocoa cream (CC), 50 mg of procyanidin hazelnut skin extract (PE) and 50 mg PE in 1 g CC (PECC). The rats were killed at 0, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4 and 18 h after gavage, and the plasma and tissues were analyzed by UPLC–MS/MS. Results   Epicatechin–glucuronide was the main metabolite in the plasma after the CC intake, with C max at 423 nM and t max at 2 h, and methyl catechin–glucuronide (301 nM, 2 h) was the main metabolite in the plasma after the PE intake. As a result of the PECC enrichment, epicatechin–glucuronide (452 nM, 1.5 h) and catechin–glucuronide (297 nM, 2 h) were the main metabolites in the plasma. Methyl catechin–glucuronide was found in the liver after PE (8 nmol/g tissue, 4 h) and PECC (8 nmol/g, 1.5 h). The kidney was found to contain a high concentration of phase-II metabolites of procyanidins and is therefore thought to be the main site of metabolism of the compounds. Methyl catechin–sulfate (6.4 nmol/g, 4 h) was only quantified in the brain and after PE intake. Catechin metabolites were not found in the spleen or heart. Phenolic acids were detected in all tissues. Conclusions   The formulation of a product enriched or fortified with procyanidins is a way to increase their bioavailability, with clear effects on the plasmatic pharmacokinetics, and a greater accumulation of phenolic metabolites in such tissues as the liver, kidney, lung and brain. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0409-2 Authors Aida Serra, Department of Food Technology, XaRTA-UTPV, Escola Tècnica Superior d’Enginyeria Agrària, Universitat de Lleida, Avda/Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain Alba Macià, Department of Food Technology, XaRTA-UTPV, Escola Tècnica Superior d’Enginyeria Agrària, Universitat de Lleida, Avda/Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain Laura Rubió, Department of Food Technology, XaRTA-UTPV, Escola Tècnica Superior d’Enginyeria Agrària, Universitat de Lleida, Avda/Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain Neus Anglès, R+D+i Department, La Morella Nuts, S.A.U., Camí Ample s/n, 43392 Castellvell del Camp, Spain Nàdia Ortega, R+D+i Department, La Morella Nuts, S.A.U., Camí Ample s/n, 43392 Castellvell del Camp, Spain José Ramón Morelló, R+D+i Department, La Morella Nuts, S.A.U., Camí Ample s/n, 43392 Castellvell del Camp, Spain Maria-Paz Romero, Department of Food Technology, XaRTA-UTPV, Escola Tècnica Superior d’Enginyeria Agrària, Universitat de Lleida, Avda/Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain Maria-José Motilva, Department of Food Technology, XaRTA-UTPV, Escola Tècnica Superior d’Enginyeria Agrària, Universitat de Lleida, Avda/Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Depression is a very common disorder in elderly, especially in those institutionalized. Nutrition could play an important role in the onset and/or progression of depression, since the intake of carbohydrates with a high glycaemic index (GI) or diets with a high glycaemic load (GL) may increase the insulin-induced brain serotonin secretion. Objective   The aim of our study was to analyse the association between dietary GI and GL and the odds of suffering depression in institutionalized elderly people without antidepressant treatment. Methods   This cross-sectional study included 140 institutionalized elderly people from the Madrid region (Spain) (65–90 years of age) whose diets were recorded using a precise weighing method over seven consecutive days. Energy and nutrient intakes were recorded and the GI and GL calculated. The participants’ affective capacity was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Subjects were grouped into non-depressed (GDS ≤ 5) and depressed (GDS 〉 5). Since GDS scores and gender were statistically associated ( p  〈 0.01), the data were grouped considering this association. Results   Dietary GI (51.09 ± 3.80) and GL (97.54 ± 13.46) were considered as medium. The dietary GL was significantly higher in the non-depressed (100.00 ± 12.13) compared with the depressed group (93.97 ± 14.04, p  〈 0.01). However, a similar GI was observed between non-depressed (51.50 ± 3.29) and depressed groups (50.52 ± 4.46). Additionally, participants with a dietary GL placed in the second and third tertiles had a 67.4 % and 65.3 %, respectively, less odds of suffering depression than those in the first tertile. GDS scores and dietary GL were inversely related; therefore, an increase in one unit in the dietary GL scale decreased the GDS score by 0.058 units. Conclusions   Glyaemic load is associated with a lower odd of depression. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0412-7 Authors A. Aparicio, Departamento de Nutrición, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain F. Robles, Servicio de Geriatría, Hospital de Cantoblanco-Gregorio Marañón, Crta de Colmenar Km 14.5, Madrid, Spain A. M. López-Sobaler, Departamento de Nutrición, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain R. M. Ortega, Departamento de Nutrición, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are synthesized and secreted by immune and epithelial cells that are constantly exposed to environmental microbes. AMPs are essential for barrier defense, and deficiencies lead to increased susceptibility to infection. In addition to their ability to disrupt the integrity of bacterial, viral and fungal membranes, AMPs bind lipopolysaccharides, act as chemoattractants for immune cells and bind to cellular receptors and modulate the expression of cytokines and chemokines. These additional biological activities may explain the role of AMPs in inflammatory diseases and cancer. Modulating the endogenous expression of AMPs offers potential therapeutic treatments for infection and disease. Methods   The present review examines the published data from both in vitro and in vivo studies reporting the effects of nutrients and by-products of microbial metabolism on the expression of antimicrobial peptide genes in order to highlight an emerging appreciation for the role of dietary compounds in modulating the innate immune response. Results   Vitamins A and D, dietary histone deacetylases and by-products of intestinal microbial metabolism (butyrate and secondary bile acids) have been found to regulate the expression of AMPs in humans. Vitamin D deficiency correlates with increased susceptibility to infection, and supplementation studies indicate an improvement in defense against infection. Animal and human clinical studies with butyrate indicate that increasing expression of AMPs in the colon protects against infection. Conclusion   These findings suggest that diet and/or consumption of nutritional supplements may be used to improve and/or modulate immune function. In addition, by-products of gut microbe metabolism could be important for communicating with intestinal epithelial and immune cells, thus affecting the expression of AMPs. This interaction may help establish a mucosal barrier to prevent invasion of the intestinal epithelium by either mutualistic or pathogenic microorganisms. Content Type Journal Article Category Review Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0415-4 Authors Yan Campbell, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, 307 Linus Pauling Science Center, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA Mary L. Fantacone, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, 307 Linus Pauling Science Center, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA Adrian F. Gombart, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, 307 Linus Pauling Science Center, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Postprandial metabolic stress as a consequence of ingestion of high-energy meals is recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the inflammatory and antioxidant response of the body to the acute ingestion of a high-fat meal (HFM). Methods   Fifteen healthy overweight subjects were recruited for the study. After HFM consumption, plasma glucose, insulin, uric acid (UA), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), thiols (SH), inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and dietary antioxidants were measured at 0, 0, 5, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 h points from ingestion. Results   The ingestion of HFM induced significant increases in both TG and TC, with peaks at 4 h ( p  〈 0.001) and 8 h ( p  〈 0.01), respectively. IL-6 and TNF-α significantly increased postprandially, reaching maximum concentrations 8 h after meal consumption ( p  〈 0.001). Whereas plasma concentrations of vitamins and carotenoids were not changed by HFM, SH and UA increased, peaking 2–4 h postingestion ( p  〈 0.001 and 0.01, respectively). Increments of SH and UA were positively correlated with AUC for TG (Pearson coefficient 0.888, p  〈 0.001 and 0.923, p  〈 0.001, respectively). Conclusions   Present results indicate that as a consequence of an excess of dietary fat, the body responds through an inflammatory reaction, which is accompanied by an increment of endogenous antioxidant defenses, mediated by UA and SH, but not by vitamins C and E and carotenoids. Although further studies are needed, results of the current investigation represent novel findings on endogenous strategies of redox defense from fat overloads. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0420-7 Authors Cristiana Miglio, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Ilaria Peluso, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Anna Raguzzini, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Deborah V. Villaño, Food and Nutrition Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy Eleonora Cesqui, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Giovina Catasta, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Elisabetta Toti, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Mauro Serafini, Functional Food and Metabolic Stress Prevention Program, National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research (INRAN), Via Ardeatina 546, 00178 Rome, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To identify the key parameters involved in cereal starch digestion and associated glycaemic response by the utilisation of a dynamic gastro-duodenal digestion model. Methods   Potential plasma glucose loading curves for each meal were calculated and fitted to an exponential function. The area under the curve (AUC) from 0 to 120 min and total digestible starch was used to calculate an in vitro glycaemic index (GI) value normalised against white bread. Microscopy was additionally used to examine cereal samples collected in vitro at different stages of gastric and duodenal digestion. Results   Where in vivo GI data were available (4 out of 6 cereal meals) no significant difference was observed between these values and the corresponding calculated in vitro GI value. Conclusion   It is possible to simulate an in vivo glycaemic response for cereals when the gastric emptying rate (duodenal loading) and kinetics of digestible starch hydrolysis in the duodenum are known. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0386-5 Authors Simon Ballance, Nofima AS, Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway Stefan Sahlstrøm, Nofima AS, Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway Per Lea, Nofima AS, Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway Nina E. Nagy, Norwegian Forest and Landscape Institute, Ås, Norway Petter V. Andersen, Nofima AS, Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway Tzvetelin Dessev, Nofima AS, Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway Sarah Hull, Leatherhead Food Research, Leatherhead, UK Maria Vardakou, Institute of Food Research, Norwich, UK Richard Faulks, Institute of Food Research, Norwich, UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   This study investigated the absorption mechanism of the phytochemicals indicaxanthin and betanin and the influence of their food matrix (cactus pear and red beet) on the intestinal transport. Methods   Trans-epithelial transport of dietary-consistent amounts of indicaxanthin and betanin in Caco-2 cell monolayers seeded on Transwell R inserts was measured in apical to basolateral (AP-BL) and basolateral to apical (BL-AP) direction, under an inwardly directed pH gradient (pH 6.0/7.4, AP/BL) mimicking luminal and serosal sides of human intestinal epithelium. The effect of inhibitors of membrane transporters on the absorption was also evaluated. Contribution of the paracellular route was investigated after EDTA treatment of the cell monolayer. In vitro digestion of betalainic food was performed to provide a post-intestinal fraction containing bioaccessible pigments. Results   Apparent permeability coefficients ( P app ) in the absorptive direction were (4.4 ± 0.4) × 10 −6 and (3.2 ± 0.3) × 10 −6  cm s −1 for indicaxanthin and betanin, respectively. Transport of indicaxanthin was non-polarized, linear as a function of time and concentration, and unaffected by inhibitors of membrane transporters. Betanin exhibited significantly different bidirectional P app values and non-linear efflux kinetics. The concentration-dependent betanin efflux was described by a kinetic model including one non-saturable ( K d  = 0.042 μL cm −2  min −1 ) and one saturable component identified as the apical multidrug resistance–associated protein 2 (MRP2; K m  = 275 μM; J max  = 42 pmol min −1 cm −2 ). Permeation of both betalains increased remarkably after EDTA treatment of the cell monolayer. Neither indicaxanthin nor betanin underwent metabolic transformation. Food matrix did not affect trans-epithelial transfer of indicaxanthin, but reduced the absorption rate of betanin, red beet more than cactus pear. Conclusions   Dietary indicaxanthin and betanin can substantially be absorbed through paracellular junctions of intestinal epithelial cells. Additional trans-membrane permeation can be considered for betanin, whose absorption is limited by a MRP2-mediated efflux and negatively affected by its food matrix. Present findings are consistent with the quite higher bioavailability of indicaxanthin over betanin established in humans. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0414-5 Authors L. Tesoriere, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy C. Gentile, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy F. Angileri, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy A. Attanzio, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy M. Tutone, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy M. Allegra, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy M. A. Livrea, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Molecolari e Biomolecolari (STEMBIO), Università di Palermo, Via Michele Cipolla 74, 90123 Palermo, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The objective was to investigate the metabolic fate of phytosteryl/-stanyl fatty acid and ferulic acid esters upon consumption by healthy humans. Methods   A capillary gas chromatographic methodology was employed to follow a randomized, single-blind three group crossover clinical trial and to quantify simultaneously individual intact esters, liberated phytosterols/-stanols and their metabolites in feces. Skimmed milk drinking yogurts enriched with complex mixtures of phytosteryl/-stanyl fatty acid esters and ferulates, respectively, were employed as food carriers. Results   On average, 73 % of total plant stanyl fatty acid esters and 80 % of total plant steryl fatty acid esters were hydrolyzed. Among the individuals, the hydrolysis rates ranged from 40 to 96 %. In addition, there were subject-dependent discrepancies between the amounts of phytosterols/-stanols actually determined in the feces and the calculated hydrolysis rates. On average, 69 % of the amounts of sterols/stanols expected from the amounts of remaining intact esters were found. Conclusions   The study revealed large interindividual variability regarding the recoveries of dietary phytosteryl/-stanyl esters upon gastrointestinal passage in healthy humans. Nevertheless, there was a significant impact of the acid moiety (oleate = linoleate = linolenate 〉 eicosanoate 〉 palmitate 〉 ferulate) on the hydrolysis rates; the influence of the phytosterol/-stanol moiety was less pronounced. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0407-4 Authors Tim Lubinus, Chair of General Food Technology, Technische Universität München, Maximus-von-Imhof-Forum 2, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany Andreas Barnsteiner, Chair of General Food Technology, Technische Universität München, Maximus-von-Imhof-Forum 2, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany Thomas Skurk, Center for Diet and Disease (ZIEL), Nutritional Medicine, Technische Universität München, Gregor-Mendel-Str. 2, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany Hans Hauner, Center for Diet and Disease (ZIEL), Nutritional Medicine, Technische Universität München, Gregor-Mendel-Str. 2, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany Karl-Heinz Engel, Chair of General Food Technology, Technische Universität München, Maximus-von-Imhof-Forum 2, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Tea ( Camellia sinensis ) is a widely consumed beverage, and laboratory and some intervention studies have indicated the potential health benefits of hot tea. The present study examines the association between tea consumption (evaluating hot and iced tea independently) and markers for metabolic syndrome adults in a sample of 6,472 who participated in the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination surveys. Methods   Tea consumption was evaluated using food frequency questionnaires and 24-h dietary recalls. Seventy percent of the sample reported any consumption of iced tea and 16 % were daily consumers, whereas approximately 56 % of this sample reported hot tea consumption and 9 % were daily consumers. Results   Hot tea consumption was inversely associated with obesity: tea consumers had lower mean waist circumference and lower BMI (25 vs. 28 kg/m 2 in men; 26 vs. 29 kg/m 2 in women; both P  〈 0.01) than non-consumers after controlling for age, physical activity, total energy intake, and other confounders. For iced tea consumption, the association was reversed: increased iced tea consumption was associated with higher BMI, greater waist circumference, and greater subcutaneous skinfold thickness after controlling for age, physical activity, energy intake, sugar intake, and other confounders. Hot tea consumption was associated with beneficial biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk and inflammation (increased high-density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol and decreased C-reactive protein in both sexes, and reduced triglycerides in women), whereas the association with iced tea consumption was again reversed. Conclusions   These cross-sectional results support growing laboratory data, which demonstrate the negative association of hot tea intake with markers of MetS. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0410-9 Authors Jacqueline A. Vernarelli, Department of Nutritional Sciences, 110 Chandlee Laboratory, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA Joshua D. Lambert, Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, 332 Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To investigate the role of octreotide, a somatostatin (SST) analog with anti-inflammatory effects, on the digestive and absorptive functions of jejunum in rats fed a high-fat diet, as well as its therapeutic prospects for diet-induced obesity. Methods   Rats were divided into three groups with different diet and treatment for the 176-day experiment: (1) control, 18 rats fed with standard chow, (2) high-fat control, 19 rats fed with high-fat chow, and (3) high-fat octreotide, 21 rats fed with high-fat chow and treated with octreotide for the last 8 days of the experiment. Plasma tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was measured by ELISA and SST by radioimmunoassay. Disaccharidase activity in the jejunal homogenate was determined. SST and Na + -dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT-1) in the jejunal mucosa were visualized by immunohistochemistry. SGLT-1 was quantified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays. Results   After 176 days, the fat/body weight ratio, villus height, maltase, SGLT-1, and plasma TNF-α in the high-fat control rats were much higher than those in the control rats ( p  〈 0.01 or p  〈 0.05) and were significantly lower in the high-fat + octreotide rats ( p  〈 0.01 or p  〈 0.05). SST levels were dramatically different in the intestinal mucosa of the two high-fat groups (231.12 ± 98.18 pg/mg in the high-fat controls and 480.01 ± 286.65 pg/mg in the octreotide group). Conclusions   The low-grade inflammation induced by high-fat diet apparently reduced the secretion of intestinal SST, which increased intestinal absorption of energy and nutrients and formation of adipose tissues. Octreotide effectively reversed this process, a finding that has far-reaching significance for the regulation of energy balance. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0413-6 Authors R. Liu, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China N. Wei, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China W. Guo, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China O. Qiang, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China X. Li, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Y. Ou, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China W. Huang, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China C. W. Tang, Division of Peptides Related with Human Disease, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To comprehensively review the data on the relationship between the consumption of dairy fat and high-fat dairy foods, obesity, and cardiometabolic disease. Methods   We have conducted a systematic literature review of observational studies on the relationship between dairy fat and high-fat dairy foods, obesity, and cardiometabolic disease. We have integrated these findings with data from controlled studies showing effects of several minor dairy fatty acids on adiposity and cardiometabolic risk factors, and data on how bovine feeding practices influence the composition of dairy fat. Results   In 11 of 16 studies, high-fat dairy intake was inversely associated with measures of adiposity. Studies examining the relationship between high-fat dairy consumption and metabolic health reported either an inverse or no association. Studies investigating the connection between high-fat dairy intake and diabetes or cardiovascular disease incidence were inconsistent. We discuss factors that may have contributed to the variability between studies, including differences in (1) the potential for residual confounding; (2) the types of high-fat dairy foods consumed; and (3) bovine feeding practices (pasture- vs. grain-based) known to influence the composition of dairy fat. Conclusions   The observational evidence does not support the hypothesis that dairy fat or high-fat dairy foods contribute to obesity or cardiometabolic risk, and suggests that high-fat dairy consumption within typical dietary patterns is inversely associated with obesity risk. Although not conclusive, these findings may provide a rationale for future research into the bioactive properties of dairy fat and the impact of bovine feeding practices on the health effects of dairy fat. Content Type Journal Article Category Review Pages 1-24 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0418-1 Authors Mario Kratz, Division of Public Health Sciences, Cancer Prevention Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue N, Mail Stop M4-B402, Seattle, WA 98109, USA Ton Baars, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Ackerstrasse, Postfach, 5070 Frick, Switzerland Stephan Guyenet, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 815 Mercer Street, Mail Box 358055, Seattle, WA 98109, USA Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Objective   The mechanism action of the polyphenol-rich extracts from berries of Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) and from grape seeds in the defence against homocysteine (Hcy) and its derivatives action in blood platelets is still unknown. In this study, the influence of the aronia extract and grape seeds extract (GSE) on the platelet adhesion to collagen and fibrinogen and the platelet aggregation during a model of hyperhomocysteinemia was investigated. The aim of our study in vitro was also to investigate superoxide anion radicals (O 2 −• ) production after incubation of platelets with Hcy, HTL and the aronia extract and GSE during a model of hyperhomocysteinemia (induced by reduced form of homocysteine at final dose of 100 μM) and the most reactive form of Hcy—its cyclic thioester, homocysteine thiolactone (HTL, 1 μM). Moreover, the additional aim of our study was also to establish and compare the influence of the aronia extract, GSE and resveratrol (3,4′,5-trihydroxystilben), a phenolic compound, which has been supposed to be beneficial for the prevention of cardiovascular events, on selected steps of platelet activation. Methods   The effects of tested extracts on adhesion of blood platelets to collagen and fibrinogen were determined according to Tuszynski and Murphy. The platelet aggregation was determined by turbidimetry method using a Chrono-log Lumi-aggregometer. Results   We have observed that HTL, like its precursor—Hcy stimulated the generation of O 2 −• (measured by the superoxide dismutase—inhibitable reduction of cytochrome c) in platelets and caused an augmentation of the platelet adhesion and aggregation induced by the strong physiological agonist—thrombin. Our present results in vitro also demonstrated that the aronia extract and grape seeds extract reduced the toxicity action of Hcy and HTL on blood platelet adhesion to collagen and fibrinogen, the platelet aggregation and superoxide anion radicals production in platelets, suggesting its potential protective effects on hemostasis during hyperhomocysteinemia. Conclusion   In the comparative studies, the aronia extract was found to be more effective antiplatelet factors, than GSE or resveratrol during a model of hyperhomocysteinemia. It gives hopes for development of diet supplements, which may be important during hyperhomocysteinemia. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0411-8 Authors Joanna Malinowska, Department of General Biochemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland Wieslaw Oleszek, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, State Research Institute, Czartoryskich 8, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland Anna Stochmal, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, State Research Institute, Czartoryskich 8, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland Beata Olas, Department of General Biochemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Although overweight is an important determinant of diabetes risk, it remains unclear whether food choices can still influence the risk for type 2 diabetes in overweight persons. In this paper, we aim to clarify the role of dietary patterns in the development of type 2 diabetes in overweight and obese individuals. Methods   We studied 20,835 overweight and obese participants in the Dutch part of the European Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC-NL) study. Dietary intake was measured using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and dietary patterns were generated using factor analysis. Incident type 2 diabetes was verified against medical records. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association between the dietary patterns (factor scores categorized in quartiles) and incident type 2 diabetes. Results   Scoring on Pattern 1, characterized by fish, wine, chicken, raw vegetables and fruit juices, was not associated with type 2 diabetes risk after confounder adjustment. A high score on Pattern 2, characterized by soft drinks, fries and snacks, was associated with higher risk of type 2 diabetes (HR Q4 vs. Q1 (95 % CI): 1.70 (1.31; 2.20), p trend  ≤ 0.0001), particularly among less active individuals [less active: HR Q4 vs. Q1 (95 % CI): 2.14 (1.48; 3.09), p trend  = 0.00004, more active: HR Q4 vs. Q1 (95 % CI): 1.35 (0.93; 1.97), p trend  = 0.01; p interaction  = 0.02]. Conclusions   A high score on a pattern high in soft drinks, fries and snacks and low in fruit and vegetables was associated with higher risk of type 2 diabetes in overweight and obese subjects especially among physically less active individuals. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0423-4 Authors Florianne Bauer, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Mailbox: Str. 6.131, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands Joline W. J. Beulens, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Mailbox: Str. 6.131, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands Daphne L. van der A, Center for Nutrition and Health, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands Cisca Wijmenga, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Groningen, The Netherlands Diederick E. Grobbee, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Mailbox: Str. 6.131, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands Annemieke M. W. Spijkerman, Center for Prevention and Health Services Research, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands Yvonne T. van der Schouw, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Mailbox: Str. 6.131, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands N. Charlotte Onland-Moret, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Mailbox: Str. 6.131, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To determine the relative impact of three iso-caloric breakfast meals, of variable composition, on satiety, hunger and subsequent intake of energy. Methods   In a three-way, crossover design, 30 healthy men (age of 21.7 ± 1.2 years; BMI, 23.1 ± 2.7 kg/m 2 ) were randomised to one of three test breakfasts, on three separate occasions, separated by 1 week. The breakfasts consisted of eggs on toast, cereal (cornflakes) with milk and toast, or a croissant and orange juice. Subjective ratings of satiety, hunger, fullness and desire to eat were recorded at 30-min intervals by electronic visual analogue scales (VAS). Energy intake was assessed by weighed food intake at an ad libitum lunch and evening meal. Results   Participants showed increased satiety, less hunger and a lower desire to eat after the breakfast containing eggs relative to the cereal ( p  〈 0.02), and croissant-based meals ( p  〈 0.0001). The egg breakfast was also accompanied by a significantly lower intake of energy relative to the croissant- and cereal-based breakfasts at the buffet lunch and evening meal, respectively, 1,284 ± 464 (egg) versus 1,442 ± 426 kcal (croissant), p  = 0.03, 1,407 ± 379 (cereal) at lunch and 1,899 ± 729 (egg) versus 2,214 ± 620 kcal (cereal), p  = 0.02, 2,047 ± 712 (croissant) at evening meal. The breakfast meal with the greatest effect on satiety and subsequent intake of energy was distinct in having the highest protein and lowest carbohydrate content relative to the other two breakfasts. Conclusion   These findings provide evidence to support the importance of food choice at breakfast as a means of increasing satiety in the morning and reducing energy intake at lunch. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0444-z Authors Rosalind Fallaize, Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Louise Wilson, Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Juliet Gray, Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Linda M. Morgan, Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Bruce A. Griffin, Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Choline forms the head group of phosphatidylcholines, comprising 40–50 % of cellular membranes and 70–95 % of phospholipids in surfactant, bile, and lipoproteins. Moreover, choline serves as the precursor of acetylcholine and is important for brain differentiation and function. While accepted as essential for fetal and neonatal development, its role in preterm infant nutrition has not yet gained much attention. Methods   The adequate intake of choline of preterm infants was estimated from international recommendations for infants, children, and adults. Choline intake relative to other nutrients was determined retrospectively in all inborn infants below 1,000 g (extremely low birth weight) or below 28 weeks gestational age, admitted to our department in 2006 and 2007 ( N  = 93). Results   Estimation of adequate intake showed that children with 290 g body weight need more choline than those with 1,200 g (31.4 and 25.2 mg/kg/day, respectively). Day-by-day variability was high for all nutrient intakes including choline. In contrast to the continuous intrauterine choline delivery, median supply reached a plateau at d11 (21.7 mg/kg/day; 25th/75th percentile: 19.6; 23.9). Individual choline supply at d0–d1 and d2–d3 was 〈10 mg/kg/day in 100 and 69 % of infants, respectively. Furthermore, intakes 〈10 mg/kg/day were frequently observed beyond day 11. Median adequate intakes (27.4 mg/kg/day at 735 g body weight) were achieved in 〈2 %. Conclusions   Nutritional intake of choline in this cohort of preterm infants was frequently less than the estimated adequate intake, with particular shortage until postnatal d10. Because choline is important for brain development, future studies are needed to investigate the effects of adequate nutritional choline intake on long-term neurodevelopment in VLBW infants. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0438-x Authors Wolfgang Bernhard, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Anna Full, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Jörg Arand, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Christoph Maas, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Christian F. Poets, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Axel R. Franz, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard-Karls-University, Calwer Straße 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The main purpose of this study was to establish bioavailability data in humans for the new (Fe) fortification compound ferrous ammonium phosphate (FAP), which was specially developed for fortification of difficult-to-fortify foods where soluble Fe compounds cannot be used due to their negative impact on product stability. Methods   A double-blind, randomized clinical trial with cross-over design was conducted to obtain bioavailability data for FAP in humans. In this trial, Fe absorption from FAP-fortified full-cream milk powder was compared to that from ferric pyrophosphate (FPP) and ferrous sulfate. Fe absorption was determined in 38 young women using the erythrocyte incorporation dual stable isotope technique ( 57 Fe, 58 Fe). Results   Geometric mean Fe absorption from ferrous sulfate, FAP and FPP was 10.4, 7.4 and 3.3 %, respectively. Fe from FAP was significantly better absorbed from milk than Fe from FPP ( p  〈 0.0001). Fe absorption from FAP was significantly lower than Fe absorption from ferrous sulfate, which was used as water-soluble reference compound ( p  = 0.0002). Absorption ratios of FAP and FPP relative to ferrous sulfate as a measure of relative bioavailability were 0.71 and 0.32, respectively. Conclusions   The results of the present studies show that replacing FPP with FAP in full-cream milk could significantly improve iron bioavailability. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0445-y Authors Thomas Walczyk, Department of Chemistry (Science), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, Singapore Peter Kastenmayer, Nestle Research Center, PO Box 44, 1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland Stefan Storcksdieck genannt Bonsmann, Laboratory for Human Nutrition, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Christophe Zeder, Laboratory for Human Nutrition, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Dominik Grathwohl, Nestle Research Center, PO Box 44, 1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland Richard F. Hurrell, Laboratory for Human Nutrition, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Hyperhomocysteinemia is well recognized as an independent risk factor for the development of premature atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, however, may be prevented by polyphenols, potent antioxidant compounds with anti-atherogenic properties. Previously, we used cystathionine beta synthase-deficient mice [Cbs (±)] fed a high-methionine diet—a murine model of hyperhomocysteinemia—to show that daily intake of a red wine polyphenolic extract, mainly comprised of catechin and epicatechin, has a beneficial effect on aortic expression of endothelial dysfunction biomarkers and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The aim of the present study was to understand whether catechin and epicatechin, in purified forms, have anti-atherogenic effects in hyperhomocysteinemia. Methods   Cbs (±) mice received 50 μg of catechin and/or epicatechin daily in drinking water for 1 month. Plasma homocysteine (Hcy) level and aortic expression of several endothelial dysfunction biomarkers (Vcam-1, Icam-1, E-selectin, and Lox-1) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (Tnf-α, Il-6) were assessed. Results   We found that both catechin and epicatechin had a beneficial effect on plasma homocysteine levels and endothelial dysfunction biomarker expression; however, only catechin had a beneficial effect on pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Further, when both polyphenols were given, a beneficial effect was observed only on pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Conclusions   Catechin seems to be a more potent anti-atherogenic compound than epicatechin in hyperhomocysteinemia and should be considered as a novel therapeutic approach against endothelial dysfunction induced by this condition. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0435-0 Authors Christophe Noll, Laboratoire BFA, Unit of Functional and Adaptive Biology (BFA), Université Paris Diderot-CNRS EAC 4413, Paris 7, Case 7104, 3 rue Marie-Andrée Lagroua Weill Hallé, 75205 Paris cedex 13, France Julie Lameth, Laboratoire BFA, Unit of Functional and Adaptive Biology (BFA), Université Paris Diderot-CNRS EAC 4413, Paris 7, Case 7104, 3 rue Marie-Andrée Lagroua Weill Hallé, 75205 Paris cedex 13, France Jean-Louis Paul, Service de Biochimie, AP-HP, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France Nathalie Janel, Laboratoire BFA, Unit of Functional and Adaptive Biology (BFA), Université Paris Diderot-CNRS EAC 4413, Paris 7, Case 7104, 3 rue Marie-Andrée Lagroua Weill Hallé, 75205 Paris cedex 13, France Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Dietary sesamin (1:1 mixture of sesamin and episesamin) decreases fatty acid synthesis but increases fatty acid oxidation in rat liver. Dietary α-lipoic acid lowers hepatic fatty acid synthesis. These changes can account for the serum lipid-lowering effect of sesamin and α-lipoic acid. It is expected that the combination of these compounds in the diet potentially ameliorates lipid metabolism more than the individual compounds. We therefore studied the combined effect of sesamin and α-lipoic acid on lipid metabolism in rats. Methods   Male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed diets supplemented with 0 or 2 g/kg sesamin and containing 0 or 2.5 g/kg α-lipoic acid for 22 days. Results and conclusions   Sesamin and α-lipoic acid decreased serum lipid concentrations and the combination of these compounds further decreased the parameters in an additive fashion. These compounds reduced the hepatic concentration of triacylglycerol, the lignan being less effective in decreasing this value. The combination failed to cause a stronger decrease in hepatic triacylglycerol concentration. The combination of sesamin and α-lipoic acid decreased the activity and mRNA levels of hepatic lipogenic enzymes in an additive fashion. Sesamin strongly increased the parameters of hepatic fatty acid oxidation enzymes. α-Lipoic acid antagonized the stimulating effect of sesamin of fatty acid oxidation through reductions in the activity of some fatty acid oxidation enzymes and carnitine concentration in the liver. This may account for the failure to observe strong reductions in hepatic triacylglycerol concentration in rats given a diet containing both sesamin and α-lipoic acid. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0408-3 Authors Takashi Ide, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Ayana Azechi, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Sayaka Kitade, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Yoko Kunimatsu, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Natsuko Suzuki, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Chihiro Nakajima, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Life, Jumonji University, 2-1-28 Sugasawa, Niiza, Saitama 352-8510, Japan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Food ingredients promoting oral health Content Type Journal Article Category Editorial Notes Pages 1-2 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0388-3 Authors ILSI Europe a.i.s.b.l., Avenue E. Mounier 83, Box 6, 1200 Brussels, Belgium Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To determine fat and fatty acid (FA) profile of Greek mother’s milk during the first 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding and to examine their correlation with dietary and other maternal characteristics. Methods   Milk samples and dietary records were obtained by mothers at 1st ( n  = 64), 3rd ( n  = 39), and 6th ( n  = 24) month postpartum. Fatty acid methylesters were separated and quantified by gas chromatography (GC/FID) and fat concentration by the creamatocrit method. Results   At the 3 time points, milk fat concentration ranged between 26.3 and 30.2 g/l ( p  〉 0.05). Milk’s FA composition was expressed as weight percentage (% wt/wt of all FAs detected with a C6 to C22 chain length). Maternal macronutrient and FA dietary intake, as well as the FAs’ profile in maternal milk, remained constant over the 6 months. Saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) represented approx. 46, 35, and 18 % of all FAs, while ω6 and ω3 PUFA were 17.4 and 0.8 %, respectively. Body weight gain during pregnancy was positively related to breast milk’s concentration in SFA ( p  〈 0.01) and negatively to milk’s concentration in MUFA ( p  〈 0.01). Age and parity were also independent factors affecting the FA profile in maternal milk. A strong positive effect was found during the first month postpartum, between mother’s PUFA intake and the concentration of PUFA, ω3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic and linoleic acid (LA) in the milk, while MUFA intake was strongly correlated with the concentration of PUFA, ω6 fatty acids, and LA. Conclusion   This study is among few in literature to determine FA profile of breast milk in European populations and verified certain dietary factors that influence this profile. Maternal PUFA and MUFA intake were found to be important factors affecting breast milk’s FA profile. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0403-8 Authors Angeliki Antonakou, Department of the Science of Dietetics–Nutrition, Harokopio University of Athens, El. Benizelou 70, 17671 Athens, Greece Katerina P. Skenderi, Department of the Science of Dietetics–Nutrition, Harokopio University of Athens, El. Benizelou 70, 17671 Athens, Greece Antonia Chiou, Department of the Science of Dietetics–Nutrition, Harokopio University of Athens, El. Benizelou 70, 17671 Athens, Greece Constantinos A. Anastasiou, Department of the Science of Dietetics–Nutrition, Harokopio University of Athens, El. Benizelou 70, 17671 Athens, Greece Chryssa Bakoula, 1st Department of Paediatrics, Children’s Hospital “Agia Sophia”, Medical School, University of Athens, Thivon & Papadiamantopoulou, 11527 Athens, Greece Antonia-Leda Matalas, Department of the Science of Dietetics–Nutrition, Harokopio University of Athens, El. Benizelou 70, 17671 Athens, Greece Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Elevated circulating activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), a marker for liver injury, and the lifestyle of a higher rate of eating in healthy and preclinical subjects are associated with increased risk of obesity and diabetes. In this study, we examined the associations between self-reported rate of eating and circulating ALT activity in middle-aged apparently healthy Japanese men. Methods   We conducted a cross-sectional study of 3,929 apparently healthy men aged 40–59 years (mean ± SD age, 49.2 ± 5.8 years; BMI, 23.5 ± 2.8 kg/m 2 ) who participated in health checkups in Japan. We analyzed their clinical serum parameters and lifestyle factors, including self-reported rate of eating. Associations between self-reported rate of eating and liver injury markers [ALT, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GTP), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)], other clinical parameters or lifestyle factors were determined using analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s test. Multivariate logistic regression analyses (MLRA) were performed with ALT activity as the dependent variable and independent variables that included self-reported rate of eating. Results   MLRA showed that ALT activity showed trends for higher self-reported rate of eating after adjustment for age, energy intake, and smoking status. The association between ALT activity and self-reported rate of eating disappeared after adjustment for BMI. Conclusion   The results of this study show that ALT activity is positively associated with self-reported rate of eating in middle-aged apparently healthy Japanese men. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0405-6 Authors Kazuki Mochizuki, Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Global COE Program, Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan Rie Miyauchi, Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Global COE Program, Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan Natsuyo Hariya, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan Yasumi Misaki, Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Global COE Program, Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan Nobuhiko Kasezawa, SBS Shizuoka Health Promotion Center, Shizuoka, Japan Kazushige Tohyama, SBS Shizuoka Health Promotion Center, Shizuoka, Japan Toshinao Goda, Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Global COE Program, Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background and aims   Vascular disease is the principal cause of death and disability in patients with diabetes, and endothelial dysfunction seems to be the major cause in its pathogenesis. Since l -arginine levels are diminished in conditions such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, in this work we aimed to verify the effects of l -arginine supplementation (7 g/day) over the endothelial function and oxidative stress markers in young male adults with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes. We also investigated the influences of l -arginine administration on vascular/oxidative stress responses to an acute bout of exercise. Methods   Ten young adult male subjects with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes and twenty matched controls volunteered for this study. We analysed the influence of l -arginine supplementation (7 g/day during 1 week) over lower limb blood flow (using a venous occlusion plethysmography technique), oxidative stress marker (TBARS, Carbonyls), anti-oxidant parameters (uric acid and TRAP) and total tNOx in rest conditions and after a single bout of submaximal exercise (VO 2 at 10 % below the second ventilatory threshold). Data described as mean ± standard error (SE). Alpha level was P  〈 0.05. Results   Glycaemic control parameters were altered in type 1 diabetic subjects, such as HbA1c (5.5 ± 0.03 vs. 8.3 ± 0.4 %) and fasted glycaemia (94.8 ± 1.4 vs. 183 ± 19 mg/dL). Oxidative stress/damage markers (carbonyls and TBARS) were increased in the diabetic group, while uric acid was decreased. Rest lower limb blood flow was lower in type 1 diabetic subjects than in healthy controls (3.53 ± 0.35 vs. 2.66 ± 0.3 ml 100 ml − ¹ min − ¹). l -Arginine supplementation completely recovered basal blood flow to normal levels in type 1 diabetics’ subjects (2.66 ± 0.3 to 4.74 ± 0.86 ml 100 ml − ¹ min − ¹) but did not interfere in any parameter of redox state or exercise. Conclusion   Our findings highlight the importance of l -arginine for the improvement of vascular function in subjects with diabetes, indicating that l -arginine supplementation could be an essential tool for the treatment for the disease complications, at least in non-complicated diabetes. However, based on our data, it is not possible to draw conclusions regarding the mechanisms by which l -arginine therapy is inducing improvements on cardiovascular function, but this important issue requires further investigations. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0404-7 Authors Ana Paula Trussardi Fayh, Laboratório de Pesquisa do Exercício, Escola de Educação Física, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil Mauricio Krause, Department of Science, Biomedical Research Group, Institute of Technology Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland Josianne Rodrigues-Krause, Department of Science, Biomedical Research Group, Institute of Technology Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland Jerri Luiz Ribeiro, Instituto Metodista Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil Jorge Pinto Ribeiro, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil Rogério Friedman, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil José Cláudio Fonseca Moreira, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Estudos em Estresse Oxidativo, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil Alvaro Reischak-Oliveira, Laboratório de Pesquisa do Exercício, Escola de Educação Física, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Phosphate (Pi) salts, often mono- (MP) or polyphosphates (PP), are commonly used as additives in the food industry. Previous studies have shown that the effects of MP and PP on calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) metabolism may differ. The aim of this study was to determine whether the effects of MP and PP salts differ on markers of Ca and P metabolism in young women. Methods   Fourteen healthy women 19–31 years of age were randomized into three controlled 24-h study sessions, each subject serving as her own control. During each session, the subjects received three doses of MP, PP or a placebo with meals in randomized order. Both Pi salts provided 1,500 mg P/d, and the diet during each session was identical. Markers of Ca and P metabolism were followed six times over 24 h. Results   During both MP and PP sessions, we found an increase in serum phosphate (S-Pi, p  = 0.0001), urinary phosphate (U-Pi, p  = 0.0001) and serum parathyroid hormone (S-PTH, p  = 0.048 MP, p  = 0.012 PP) relative to the control session. PP decreased U-Ca more than did MP ( p  = 0.014). Conclusions   The results suggest that PP binds Ca in the intestine more than does MP. Based on the S-Pi, U-Pi and S-PTH results, both Pi salts are absorbed with equal efficiency. In the long run, increased S-PTH, caused by either an MP or PP salt, could have negative effects on bone metabolism. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0406-5 Authors Heini J. Karp, Calcium Research Unit, Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland Virpi E. Kemi, Calcium Research Unit, Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland Christel J. E. Lamberg-Allardt, Calcium Research Unit, Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland Merja U. M. Kärkkäinen, Calcium Research Unit, Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, P.O. Box 66, 00014 Helsinki, Finland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Heart produces ATP through long-chain fatty acids beta oxidation. Purpose   To analyze whether in ventricular myocardium, high-fat diet may modify the expression of proteins associated with energy metabolism before myocardial function was affected. Methods   Wistar Kyoto rats were divided into two groups: (a) rats fed standard diet (control; n  = 6) and (b) rats fed high-fat diet (HFD; n  = 6). Proteins from left ventricles were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis, mass spectrometry and Western blotting. Results   Rats fed with HFD showed higher body weight, insulin, glucose, leptin and total cholesterol plasma levels as compared with those fed with standard diet. However, myocardial functional parameters were not different between them. The protein expression of 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase, acyl-CoA hydrolase mitochondrial precursor and enoyl-CoA hydratase, three long-chain fatty acid β-oxidation-related enzymes, and carnitine- O -palmitoyltransferase I was significantly higher in left ventricles from HFD rats. Protein expression of triosephosphate isomerase was higher in left ventricles from HFD rats than in those from control. Two α/β-enolase isotypes and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate isomerase were significantly increased in HFD rats as compared with control. Pyruvate and lactate contents were similar in HFD and control groups. Expression of proteins associated with Krebs cycle and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation was higher in HFD rats. Conclusions   Expression of proteins involved in left ventricle metabolic energy was enhanced before myocardial functionality was affected in rats fed with HFD. These findings may probably indicate higher cardiac energy requirement due to weight increase by HFD. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0392-7 Authors Javier Modrego, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Profesor Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid, Spain Natalia de las Heras, School of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain Jose J. Zamorano-León, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Profesor Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid, Spain Petra J. Mateos-Cáceres, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Profesor Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid, Spain Beatriz Martín-Fernández, School of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain Maria Valero-Muñoz, School of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain Vicente Lahera, School of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain Antonio J. López-Farré, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Profesor Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Polydextrose is a low-calorie highly branched-chain glucose polymer that is poorly digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract and therefore demonstrates fibre-like properties. Fibre has been shown to increase satiety and possibly reduce food intake. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to examine the effects of polydextrose on short-term satiety and energy intake. Methods   In a repeated-measures randomized blind cross-over design, 26 healthy males consumed a 400-g fruit smoothie containing 12 g (3 %) of polydextrose, and a buffet lunch 60 min after the smoothie. Motivational ratings for satiety and palatability and lunch energy intake were measured. The effects of the polydextrose-containing smoothie were compared against a polydextrose-free control smoothie. Results   Polydextrose did not significantly alter the taste and palatability of the fruit smoothie. Consuming the polydextrose-containing smoothie resulted in a significantly lower energy intake at lunch (102 kcal less) compared to the control. Conclusion   Polydextrose may be a good fortificant for reducing short-term food intake. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0395-4 Authors Viren Ranawana, Functional Food Centre, Oxford Brookes University, Gipsy Lane, Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK Adelaide Muller, Functional Food Centre, Oxford Brookes University, Gipsy Lane, Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK C. Jeya K. Henry, Functional Food Centre, Oxford Brookes University, Gipsy Lane, Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Glucosinolates/isothiocyanates are an established class of naturally occurring chemopreventive agents, a principal mechanism of action being to limit the generation of genotoxic metabolites of chemical carcinogens, as a result of modulation of cytochrome P450 and phase II detoxification enzymes. The objective of this study was to assess whether a glucosinolate-rich extract from Daikon sprouts, containing glucroraphasatin and glucoraphenin, is a potential chemopreventive agent by modulating such enzymes in the liver and lung of rats. Methods   Rats were exposed to the glucosinolate-rich Daikon extract through the diet, at three dose levels, for 14 days, so that the low dose simulates dietary intake. Results   At the low dose only, a modest increase was noted in the hepatic dealkylations of methoxy-, ethoxy-, pentoxyresorufin and benzyloxyquinoline that was accompanied by elevated expression of CYP1 and CYP3A2 apoprotein levels. In lung, only a modest increase in the dealkylation of pentoxyresorufin was observed. At higher doses, in both tissues, these increases were abolished. At the same low dietary dose, the Daikon extract elevated markedly glutathione S -transferase activity paralleled by rises in GSTα, GSTμ and GSTπ protein expression. An increase was also noted in quinone reductase activity and expression. Finally, glucuronosyl transferase and epoxide hydrolase activities and expression were also up-regulated, but necessitated higher doses. Conclusion   Considering the ability of Daikon glucosinolates to effectively enhance detoxification enzymes, in particular glutathione S -transferase, it may be inferred that consumption of this vegetable may possess significant chemopreventive activity and warrants further evaluation through epidemiology and studies in animal models of cancer. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0397-2 Authors Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis, Molecular Toxicology Group, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Gina Rosalinda De Nicola, Agricultural Research Council, Industrial Crop Research Centre (CRA-CIN), Via di Corticella, 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy Eleonora Pagnotta, Agricultural Research Council, Industrial Crop Research Centre (CRA-CIN), Via di Corticella, 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy Renato Iori, Agricultural Research Council, Industrial Crop Research Centre (CRA-CIN), Via di Corticella, 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy Costas Ioannides, Molecular Toxicology Group, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Lysozyme, obtained from egg white, is a potential food allergen used in the dairy industry to prevent late blowing of the loaf caused by the outgrowth of clostridial spores ( Cl. butyricum and Cl. tyrobutyricum ) during cheese aging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible correlation between egg protein allergy in pediatric age and sensitization to egg lysozyme, used for the preparation of Grana Padano cheese. Methods   The tolerability of Grana Padano cheese has been evaluated in pediatric patients allergic to egg proteins through an oral provocation test with increasing amounts of cheese containing, or not, lysozyme at 12 and 24 months of aging. Results   When lysozyme-sensitized children received 12-months aged and lysozyme-containing cheese, several immediate and late adverse reactions such as itching, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, dermatitis, rhinitis, bronchial asthma, urticaria, and angioedema were seen in 5 out of 21 subjects; only 1 out of 21 children showed an adverse reaction after challenge with 24-months-ripened lysozyme-containing cheese. Conclusions   There is a possible relationship between the severity of allergic reactions and the lysozyme-specific IgE level in blood. In particular vomiting, hypotension, and abdominal pain were present when IgE level was higher than 7 kU/L. A ripening time of 24 months may reduce allergy problems when lysozyme-containing cheese is given to sensitized subjects, probably due to the hydrolysis of antigenic epitopes during aging. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0394-5 Authors A. Marseglia, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche, Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Sezione di Scienze Pediatriche, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy A. M. Castellazzi, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche, Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Sezione di Scienze Pediatriche, Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca su Immunità e Nutrizione, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy C. Valsecchi, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche, Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Sezione di Scienze Pediatriche, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy A. Licari, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche, Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Sezione di Scienze Pediatriche, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy G. Piva, Istituto di Scienze degli Alimenti e della Nutrizione, Facoltà di Agraria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy F. Rossi, Istituto di Scienze degli Alimenti e della Nutrizione, Facoltà di Agraria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy L. Fiorentini, Istituto di Scienze degli Alimenti e della Nutrizione, Facoltà di Agraria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy G. L. Marseglia, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche, Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Sezione di Scienze Pediatriche, Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca su Immunità e Nutrizione, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Dietary protein content is related clinically to the development of diabetic nephropathy. Here, we investigated how dietary protein content (12–24 % energy) within the range used by humans affected renal manifestations including the expressions of genes involved in the renin-angiotensin (RA) system in control and diabetic mice. Moreover, we examined the effects of dietary protein content on HbA1c and urinary glucose. Methods   Control (CT) and leptin receptor-deficient obese ( db ) mice, 5 weeks old, were fed the diets below. Under ad libitum conditions, mice were fed 12, 18, and 24 % energy from protein (L-, M-, and H-diets) for 8 weeks. Under pair-feeding conditions, db mice were supplied H-diet ( db -Hp) to the equivalent energy to that consumed by db -L mice. Renal manifestations and values related to glucose and insulin were examined biochemically and pathologically. Results   Under ad libitum conditions, db mice consumed food and water dose dependently of the dietary protein content, although they were consumed similarly by CT mice. CT-L mice showed lower urinary albumin and kidney weight, in association with lower mRNA levels of angiotensinogen and renin, than CT-H mice. Under pair-feeding conditions, db -L mice showed a lower ratio of kidney/body weight, HbA1 C , and urinary glucose, and a higher β-cell distribution rate in the pancreas than db -Hp mice. Conclusions   Low-protein intake in the range used by humans may relieve renal manifestations through the suppressed expression of genes in the renal RA system of CT mice. On the other hand, in db mice, low-protein intake improved hyperglycemia and the renal manifestations of diabetes. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0387-4 Authors Emi Arimura, Department of Life and Environmental Science, Kagoshima Prefectural College, 1-52-1 Shimo-Ishiki, Kagoshima, 890-0005 Japan Masahisa Horiuchi, Department of Environmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima, 890-8544 Japan Hiroaki Kawaguchi, Laboratory of Veterinary Histopathology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Koorimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065 Japan Noriaki Miyoshi, Laboratory of Veterinary Histopathology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Koorimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065 Japan Kohji Aoyama, Department of Environmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima, 890-8544 Japan Toru Takeuchi, Department of Environmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima, 890-8544 Japan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Syrah red grapes are used in the production of tannin-rich red wines. Tannins are high molecular weight molecules, proanthocyanidins (PAs), and poorly absorbed in the upper intestine. In this study, gut microbial metabolism of Syrah grape phenolic compounds was investigated. Methods   Syrah grape pericarp was subjected to an enzymatic in vitro digestion model, and red wine and grape skin PA fraction were prepared. Microbial conversion was screened using an in vitro colon model with faecal microbiota, by measurement of short-chain fatty acids by gas chromatography (GC) and microbial phenolic metabolites using GC with mass detection (GC–MS). Red wine metabolites were further profiled using two-dimensional GC mass spectrometry (GCxGC-TOFMS). In addition, the effect of PA structure and dose on conversion efficiency was investigated by GC–MS. Results   Red wine exhibited a higher degree of C1–C3 phenolic acid formation than PA fraction or grape pericarp powders. Hydroxyphenyl valeric acid (flavanols and PAs as precursors) and 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (anthocyanin as a precursor) were identified from the red wine metabolite profile. In the absence of native grape pericarp or red wine matrix, the isolated PAs were found to be effective in the dose-dependent inhibition of microbial conversions and short-chain fatty acid formation. Conclusions   Metabolite profiling was complementary to targeted analysis. The identified metabolites had biological relevance, because the structures of the metabolites resembled fragments of their grape phenolic precursors or were in agreement with literature data. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0391-8 Authors Anna-Marja Aura, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tietotie 2, P.O.Box 1000, Espoo, 02044 Finland Ismo Mattila, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tietotie 2, P.O.Box 1000, Espoo, 02044 Finland Tuulia Hyötyläinen, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tietotie 2, P.O.Box 1000, Espoo, 02044 Finland Peddinti Gopalacharyulu, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tietotie 2, P.O.Box 1000, Espoo, 02044 Finland Veronique Cheynier, INRA, UMR 1083, Sciences Pour l’œnologie, Montpellier, France Jean-Marc Souquet, INRA, UMR 1083, Sciences Pour l’œnologie, Montpellier, France Magali Bes, INRA, Unité Expérimentale de Pech Rouge, 11 430 Gruissan, France Carine Le Bourvellec, INRA, UMR 408 “Sécurité et Qualité des Produits d’Origine Végétale”, Avignon, France Sylvain Guyot, INRA UR117 Cidricoles et Biotransformation des Fruits et Légumes, Le Rheu, France Matej Orešič, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tietotie 2, P.O.Box 1000, Espoo, 02044 Finland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Notice of disputed authorship to: Vitamin C supplementation reconstitutes polyfunctional T cells in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats Content Type Journal Article Category NOTICE OF DISPUTED AUTHORSHIP Pages 1-1 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0365-x Authors Gamal Badr, Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia Samir Bashandy, Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia Hossam Ebaid, Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia Mohamed Mohany, Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia Douaa Sayed, Clinical Pathology Department, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. It was tested within a case–control study in this region whether a specific dietary pattern impacts on the breast cancer risk. Methods   A validated semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to assess the dietary intake of 115 female breast cancer patients and 230 healthy age-matched women living in the same districts. A logistic regression was performed to estimate breast cancer risk. Dietary patterns were obtained using principal component analysis with Varimax rotation. Results   The adjusted logistic regression estimated an increased risk for a “Fatty Diet”, characterized by a higher consumption of milk, vegetable oils and fats, butter, lard and red meat (OR = 1.42, 95 % CI 1.08–1.87; P  = 0.01), and for a “Fruity Diet”, characterized by a higher consumption of fish, mango, papaya, avocado and watery fruits (OR = 1.61, 95 % CI 1.14–2.28; P  = 0.01). Both diets showed an inverse association with the ratio between polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids (P/S ratio). Conclusion   A diet characterized by a low P/S ratio seems to be more important for the development of breast cancer than total fat intake. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0398-1 Authors Irmgard Jordan, Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Wilhelmstr. 20, 35392 Giessen, Germany Antje Hebestreit, Bremen Institute for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Bremen, Germany Britta Swai, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Moshi, Tanzania Michael B. Krawinkel, Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Wilhelmstr. 20, 35392 Giessen, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Chronic sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Hyperglycaemia contributes to metabolic alterations observed in T2DM, such as reduced oxidative capacity and elevated glycolytic and lipogenic enzyme expressions in skeletal muscle tissue. We aimed to investigate the metabolic alterations induced by SSB supplementation in healthy individuals and to compare these with the effects of chronic hyperglycaemia on primary muscle cell cultures. Methods   Lightly active, healthy, lean subjects ( n  = 11) with sporadic soft drink consumption underwent a 4-week SSB supplementation (140 ± 15 g/day, ~2 g glucose/kg body weight/day, glucose syrup). Before and after the intervention, body composition, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), insulin sensitivity, muscle metabolic gene and protein expression were assessed. Adaptive responses to hyperglycaemia (7 days, 15 mM) were tested in primary human myotubes. Results   SSB supplementation increased fat mass (+1.0 kg, P  〈 0.05), fasting RER (+0.12, P  〈 0.05), fasting glucose (+0.3 mmol/L, P  〈 0.05) and muscle GAPDH mRNA expressions (+0.94 AU, P  〈 0.05). PGC1α mRNA was reduced (−0.20 AU, P  〈 0.05). Trends were found for insulin resistance (+0.16 mU/L, P  = 0.09), and MondoA protein levels (+1.58 AU, P  = 0.08). Primary myotubes showed elevations in GAPDH, ACC, MondoA and TXNIP protein expressions ( P  〈 0.05). Conclusion   Four weeks of SSB supplementation in healthy individuals shifted substrate metabolism towards carbohydrates, increasing glycolytic and lipogenic gene expression and reducing mitochondrial markers. Glucose-sensing protein MondoA might contribute to this shift, although further in vivo evidence is needed to corroborate this. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0401-x Authors Francesco Sartor, College of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, George Building, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PZ, UK Matthew J. Jackson, College of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, George Building, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PZ, UK Cesare Squillace, DiSUAN, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Urbino, Italy Anthony Shepherd, College of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, George Building, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PZ, UK Jonathan P. Moore, College of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, George Building, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PZ, UK Donald E. Ayer, Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA Hans-Peter Kubis, College of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, George Building, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PZ, UK Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Wild blueberries (WB) ( Vaccinium angustifolium ) are rich sources of polyphenols, such as flavonols, phenolic acids and anthocyanins (ACNs), reported to decrease the risk of cardiovascular and degenerative diseases. This study investigated the effect of regular consumption of a WB or a placebo (PL) drink on markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial function in subjects with risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Methods   Eighteen male volunteers (ages 47.8 ± 9.7 years; body mass index 24.8 ± 2.6 kg/m 2 ) received according to a cross-over design, a WB (25 g freeze-dried powder, providing 375 mg of ACNs) or a PL drink for 6 weeks, spaced by a 6-week wash-out. Endogenous and oxidatively induced DNA damage in blood mononuclear cells, serum interleukin levels, reactive hyperemia index, nitric oxide, soluble vascular adhesion molecule concentration and other variables were analyzed. Results   Wild blueberry drink intake significantly reduced the levels of endogenously oxidized DNA bases (from 12.5 ± 5.6 % to 9.6 ± 3.5 %, p  ≤ 0.01) and the levels of H 2 O 2 -induced DNA damage (from 45.8 ± 7.9 % to 37.2 ± 9.1 %, p  ≤ 0.01), while no effect was found after the PL drink. No significant differences were detected for markers of endothelial function and the other variables under study. Conclusions   In conclusion, the consumption of the WB drink for 6 weeks significantly reduced the levels of oxidized DNA bases and increased the resistance to oxidatively induced DNA damage. Future studies should address in greater detail the role of WB in endothelial function. This study was registered at www.isrctn.org as ISRCTN47732406. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0402-9 Authors Patrizia Riso, DeFENS, Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy Dorothy Klimis-Zacas, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA Cristian Del Bo’, DeFENS, Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy Daniela Martini, DeFENS, Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy Jonica Campolo, Dipartimento Cardiovascolare, Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica CNR, Ospedale Niguarda Ca’ Granda, Milan, Italy Stefano Vendrame, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA Peter Møller, Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark Steffen Loft, Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark Renata De Maria, Dipartimento Cardiovascolare, Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica CNR, Ospedale Niguarda Ca’ Granda, Milan, Italy Marisa Porrini, DeFENS, Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The present study investigated the underlying mechanism associated with the hypocholesterolemic activity of blueberry anthocyanins by examining its effect on fecal sterol excretion and gene expression of major receptors, enzymes, and transporters involved in cholesterol metabolism. Methods   Hamsters were divided into three groups and fed a 0.1 % cholesterol diet containing 0 % (CTL), 0.5 % (BL), and 1.0 % (BH) blueberry anthocyanins, respectively, for six weeks. Plasma total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerols (TAG), and non-high-density lipoproteins cholesterol (non-HDL-C) were measured using the enzymatic kits, and the gene expression of transporters, enzymes, and receptors involved in cholesterol absorption and metabolism was quantified using the quantitative PCR. GC analysis was used to quantify hepatic cholesterol and fecal acidic and neutral sterols. Results   Dietary supplementation of 0.5 and 1.0 % blueberry anthocyanins for 6 weeks decreased plasma TC concentration by 6–12 % in a dose-dependent manner. This was accompanied by increasing the excretion of fecal neutral and acidic sterols by 22–29 % and 41–74 %, respectively. Real-time PCR analyses demonstrated that incorporation of blueberry anthocyanins into diet down-regulated the genes of NPC1L1, ACAT-2, MTP, and ABCG 8. In addition, blueberry anthocyanins were also able to down-regulate the gene expression of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase. Conclusion   The cholesterol-lowering activity of blueberry anthocyanins was most likely mediated by enhancing the excretion of sterols accompanied with down-regulation on gene expression of intestinal NPC1L1, ACAT-2, MTP, and ABCG 8. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0393-6 Authors Yintong Liang, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Jingnan Chen, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China Yuanyuan Zuo, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Ka Ying Ma, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Yue Jiang, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China Yu Huang, School of Biomedical Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China Zhen-Yu Chen, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Experimental evidence indicates a strong connection between oxidative damage, cancer, and aging. Epidemiological observations suggest that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated with lower incidence of some cancers and longer life expectancy; since fruits and vegetables contain natural antioxidants, a considerable effort has been dedicated to understanding their effects in experimental studies and in human trials. Results   A: Effects of antioxidant-containing food and supplements on oxidation damage in humans. Intervention trials employing a variety of biomarkers have shown either a slight decrease in oxidation damage or no effect. B: Effects of selected antioxidants on mortality and cancer incidence. β-carotene and α-tocopherol, alone or in combination, increase cardiovascular and all-cause mortality or have no effect. In some studies, β-carotene and retinyl palmitate significantly increase the progression of lung cancer and aggressive prostate cancer. Protection against cardiovascular mortality or no effect of vitamin E has been reported, with an increase of all-cause mortality at dosages greater than 150 IU/day. Selenium showed beneficial effects on gastrointestinal cancer and reduced the risk of lung cancer in populations with lower selenium status. For multivitamin and mineral supplementation, no significant reduction of mortality or cancer incidence was observed, but some reports indicate a possible preventive effect in cervical cancer. Conclusions   The majority of supplementation studies indicate no variation of general mortality and of cancer incidence or a detrimental effect on both. Antioxidant supplements so far tested seem to offer no improvement over a well-balanced diet, possibly because of the choice of the substances tested or of an excessive dosage. However, new natural or synthetic compounds effective in vitro and in experimental studies might still be worth investigating in human trials. Content Type Journal Article Category Review Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0389-2 Authors Piero Dolara, Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy Elisabetta Bigagli, Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy Andrew Collins, Department of Nutrition, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To investigate whether a maternal high-fat diet (HF) during pregnancy and/or suckling periods predisposes adult C57BL/6 mice offspring to morphological pancreatic modifications. Methods   Male pups were divided into 5 groups: SC (standard chow)—from dams fed SC during gestation and lactation, maintaining an SC diet from postweaning to adulthood; G—from dams fed HF diets during gestation; L—from dams fed HF diets during lactation; GL—from dams fed HF diets during gestation and lactation; and GL/HF—from dams fed HF diets during gestation and lactation, maintaining an HF diet from postweaning to adulthood. We analysed body mass (BM), plasma insulin, pancreas and adipose tissue structures. Results   During the entire experiment, the SC group had the lowest BM. However, GL/HF offspring were heavier than the other groups. This weight gain was also accompanied by adipocyte hypertrophy. At 3 months, G offspring showed an increased insulin levels and impairment in carbohydrates metabolism. Furthermore, pancreatic islets were hypertrophied in G, GL and GL/HF offspring in comparison with SC offspring. Conclusion   HF diet administration during the gestation period is more harmful than during the lactation period, exerting deleterious effects on pancreatic morphology in addition to larger fat deposits in adult mice offspring. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0382-9 Authors Bianca Martins Gregorio, Laboratório de Morfometria, Metabolismo e Doença Cardiovascular, Centro Biomédico, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. 28 de Setembro 87 (fds), 20551-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Vanessa Souza-Mello, Laboratório de Morfometria, Metabolismo e Doença Cardiovascular, Centro Biomédico, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. 28 de Setembro 87 (fds), 20551-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Carlos Alberto Mandarim-de-Lacerda, Laboratório de Morfometria, Metabolismo e Doença Cardiovascular, Centro Biomédico, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. 28 de Setembro 87 (fds), 20551-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Marcia Barbosa Aguila, Laboratório de Morfometria, Metabolismo e Doença Cardiovascular, Centro Biomédico, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. 28 de Setembro 87 (fds), 20551-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background and purpose   Rice bran enzymatic extract (RBEE) has advantages compared to the original rice bran or its oils including water solubility, lack of rancidity and increased content in high nutritional proteins and nutraceutical compounds, particularly phytosterols, γ-oryzanol and tocols. Our aim was to determine the beneficial effects of RBEE in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome in obese Zucker rats. Methods   Obese Zucker rats and their lean littermates were fed a 1 and 5 % RBEE-supplemented diet (O1, O5, L1 and L5). Simultaneously, obese and lean Zucker rats, fed a standard diet, were used as controls (OC and LC, respectively). Body weight, food and water intake, and systolic blood pressure were weekly evaluated. After treatment, biochemical assays of serum glucose, insulin, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), adiponectin and nitrates (NO (x) ) were determined. Results   RBEE treatment reduced circulating levels of TG and TC, whereas increased HDL-cholesterol without altering NEFA values in obese rats. The extract also induced a significant dose-dependent reduction of hypertension linked to obesity. RBEE of 5 % improved insulin resistance and subsequently reduced HOMA-IR index without altering serum glucose levels. Obese animals treated with RBEE showed partial restoration of adiponectin levels and a significant attenuation of pro-inflammatory values of NO (x) . Conclusion   These findings evidence the nutraceutical properties of RBEE against the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome by attenuating dyslipidemia, hypertension and insulin resistance as well as by restoring hypoadiponectinemia associated to obesity. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0385-6 Authors Maria L. Justo, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor Garcia-Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain Rosalia Rodriguez–Rodriguez, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor Garcia-Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain Carmen M. Claro, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor Garcia-Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain Maria Alvarez de Sotomayor, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor Garcia-Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain Juan Parrado, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain Maria D. Herrera, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor Garcia-Gonzalez 2, 41012 Seville, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Aims of the study   Wine polyphenols attenuate the development of atherosclerosis, which involves an inflammatory process. We studied the beneficial effect of de-alcoholised white and red wines (DWW and DRW, respectively) on the development of atheroma plaques and on the expression of biomarkers. Methods   We administered control or de-alcoholised wine-rich diets to apoE-deficient mice for 12 or 20 weeks. We then used optical microscopy or immunofluorescence to examine atherosclerotic lesion development in the thoracic aorta and aortic root and assessed the presence of cytokines and adhesion molecules by qPCR and immunofluorescence in total aorta and aortic root, respectively. Results   Atherosclerotic lesions in thoracic aorta were significantly decreased in mice supplemented with DWW (30 %) and DRW (62 %) for 20 weeks. In addition, the expressions of interferon-γ, interleukin-1β, the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and CD68 were reduced by DRW. The adhesion molecule P-selectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 were decreased by 52, 76 and 45 %, respectively, in mice fed DRW for 12 weeks, whereas DWW reduced these parameters in a minor extent. The NF-κB expression in total aorta was significantly decreased in the mice treated with de-alcoholised wines for 12 weeks. Conclusions   DRW is shown to be more effective than DWW on cytokines and adhesion molecule expression, in the early stages of the inflammatory events associated with atherosclerosis development, probably due to the high phenolic content of red wine. Downregulation of NF-κB expression may be involved in the mechanism by which de-alcoholised wines modulate atherosclerosis. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0379-4 Authors Nuria Martínez, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, IRNSA, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Kelly Casós, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, IRNSA, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Paolo Simonetti, Department of Food Science and Microbiology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy María P. Sáiz, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, IRNSA, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Juan J. Moreno, Departament de Fisiologia, Facultat de Farmacia, IRNSA, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Joan XXIII s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Spain María T. Mitjavila, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, IRNSA, Universitat de Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Although previous studies suggested that higher low-fat dairy consumption lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, the mediating factors are not well understood. Higher baseline adiponectin levels are related with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. This study evaluated whether low-fat dairy is related with adiponectin in apparently healthy adults. Methods   We investigated a cross-sectional ( n  = 938) and one-year longitudinal ( n  = 759) relationship between low-fat and whole-/high-fat dairy (both including cow’s milk and yogurt) and adiponectin. Dairy consumption was assessed with a validated food frequency questionnaire. Serum adiponectin was measured by using a specific sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results   In the cross-sectional analysis, the geometric means (95 % confidence intervals [95 % CIs]) of log-transformed adiponectin related with the low-fat dairy categories were 7.27 (6.80–7.77) for the lowest category, 7.67 (7.09–8.31) for the middle category, and 8.40 (7.73–9.13) for the highest category ( p  〈 0.001) after adjustment for potential confounders (including all lifestyle factors). In the longitudinal analysis, repeated-measures ANCOVA adjusted for confounding factors showed a significant time-by-categories (categories of low-fat dairy) interaction in the change of adiponectin. In contrast, no significant relationship was found between the whole-/high-fat dairy categories and adiponectin. Conclusions   This study has shown that higher consumption of low-fat dairy, but not of whole-/high-fat dairy, is related with higher levels of adiponectin and with the change of adiponectin level at the one-year follow-up. These results suggest that the consumption of low-fat dairy may have a beneficial effect on serum adiponectin levels. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0383-8 Authors Kaijun Niu, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, 300070 Tianjin, People’s Republic of China Yoritoshi Kobayashi, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Lei Guan, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Haruki Monma, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Hui Guo, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Yufei Cui, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Atsushi Otomo, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Masahiko Chujo, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Ryoichi Nagatomi, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To provide updated information on trends and determinants of underweight, overweight, and obesity in Italian adults. Methods   We considered data from 5 surveys conducted annually between 2006 and 2010, on a total of 14,135 subjects aged 18 years or more (6,834 men and 7,301 women), representative of the Italian adult population, including self-reported information on height and weight. Results   Overall, 3.1 % of the Italian adult population was underweight (body mass index, BMI, 〈18.5 kg/m 2 ; 0.8 % men, 5.3 % women), 31.8 % overweight (25≤ BMI 〈30 kg/m 2 ; 39.8 % men, 24.4 % women), and 8.9 % obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m 2 ; 8.5 % men, 9.4 % women). We observed no specific pattern of overweight/obesity across calendar years in men (multivariate prevalence ratios, PR, for 2010 vs 2006: 0.95; p for trend: 0.980) and a non-significant decreased trend in women (PR: 0.92; p for trend: 0.051). Prevalence of overweight/obesity significantly increased with age (PRs for ≥65 vs 18–24 years: 2.01 in men, 2.65 in women), decreased with education (PRs for high vs low education: 0.79 in men, 0.54 in women), and was less frequent in single than in married adults (PRs: 0.85 in men, 0.78 in women). Overweight/obesity was significantly more frequent in adults from southern versus northern Italy (PRs: 1.13 in men, 1.32 in women) and in former versus never smokers (PRs: 1.23 in men, 1.19 in women). Conclusions   In Italy, we did not find unfavorable trends in overweight and obesity prevalence across calendar years. However, there are specific subgroups of the population with elevated prevalence of overweight and obesity, mainly adults from southern Italy and less educated ones. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0372-y Authors Silvano Gallus, Dipartimento di Epidemiologia, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”, Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy Anna Odone, Dipartimento di Epidemiologia, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”, Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy Alessandra Lugo, Dipartimento di Epidemiologia, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”, Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy Cristina Bosetti, Dipartimento di Epidemiologia, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”, Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy Paolo Colombo, Istituto DOXA, Gallup International Association, Milan, Italy Piergiorgio Zuccaro, Dipartimento del Farmaco, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy Carlo La Vecchia, Dipartimento di Epidemiologia, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche “Mario Negri”, Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   The relationship between habitual consumption of foods with a high glycemic index (GI) and/or a diet with a high glycemic load (GL) and risk of endometrial cancer is uncertain, and relatively few studies have investigated these associations. The objectives of this study were to examine the association between GI/GL and risk of endometrial cancer using data from an Australian population-based case–control study and systematically review all the available evidence to quantify the magnitude of the association using meta-analysis. Methods   The case–control study included 1,290 women aged 18–79 years with newly diagnosed, histologically confirmed endometrial cancer and 1,436 population controls. Controls were selected to match the expected Australian state of residence and age distribution (in 5-year bands) of cases. For the systematic review, relevant studies were identified by searching PubMed and Embase databases through to July 2011. Random-effects models were used to calculate the summary risk estimates, overall and dose–response. Results   In our case–control study, we observed a modest positive association between high dietary GI (OR 1.43, 95 % CI 1.11–1.83) and risk of endometrial cancer, but no association with high dietary GL (OR 1.15, 95 % CI 0.90–1.48). For the meta-analysis, we collated information from six cohort and two case–control studies, involving a total of 5,569 cases. The pooled OR for the highest versus the lowest intake category of GI was 1.15 (0.95–1.40); however, there was significant heterogeneity ( p 0.004) by study design (RR 1.00 [95 % CI 0.87–1.14] for cohort studies and 1.56 [95 % CI 1.21–2.02] for case–control studies). There was no association in the dose–response meta-analysis of GI (RR per 5 unit/day increment of GI 1.00, 95 % CI 0.97–1.03). GL was positively associated with endometrial cancer. The pooled RR for the highest versus the lowest GL intake was 1.21 (95 % CI 1.09–1.33) and 1.06 (95 % CI 1.01–1.11) per 50 unit/day increment of GL in the dose–response meta-analysis. Conclusion   The pooled results from observational studies, including our case–control results, provide evidence of a modest positive association between high GL, but not GI, and endometrial cancer risk. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0376-7 Authors Christina M. Nagle, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia Catherine M. Olsen, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia Torukiri I. Ibiebele, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia Amanda B. Spurdle, Molecular Cancer Epidemiology, Genetics Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, Australia Penelope M. Webb, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia The Australian National Endometrial Cancer Study Group, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia The Australian Ovarian Cancer Study Group, Gynaecological Cancers, Population Health Research Department, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Locked Bag 2000, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Epidemiological studies clearly link intrauterine growth restriction with increased risk of cardiac disease in adulthood. The mechanisms leading to this increased risk are poorly understood; remodeling of the myocardium is implicated. The aim was to determine the effect of early life growth restriction on the biochemical composition of the left ventricular myocardium in adult rats. Methods   Wistar Kyoto dams were fed either a low protein diet (LPD; 8.7 % casein) or normal protein diet (NPD; 20 % casein) during pregnancy and lactation; from weaning, the offspring were fed normal rat chow. At 18 weeks of age, the biochemical composition of the hearts of NPD control ( n  = 9) and LPD intrauterine growth-restricted ( n  = 7) offspring was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) micro-spectroscopy. Results   Body weights at postnatal day 4 were significantly lower and remained lower throughout the experimental period in the LPD offspring compared to controls. FTIR analysis of the infrared absorption spectra across the whole “fingerprint” region (1,800–950 cm −1 ) demonstrated wider variation in absorbance intensity in the LPD group compared to controls. In particular, there were marked differences detected in the protein (1,540 cm −1 ), lipid (1,455 and 1,388 cm −1 ), proteoglycan (1,228 cm −1 ) and carbohydrate (1,038 cm −1 ) bands, indicating increased lipid, proteoglycan and carbohydrate content in the growth-restricted myocardium. Conclusion   In conclusion, changes in the biochemical composition of the myocardium provide a likely mechanism for the increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease in offspring that were growth restricted in early life. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0381-x Authors Vladislava Zohdi, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Bayden R. Wood, Centre for Biospectroscopy and School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia James T. Pearson, Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Keith R. Bambery, Centre for Biospectroscopy and School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia M. Jane Black, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Lipoic acid (LA) is an antioxidant with antiobesity and antidiabetic properties. Adiponectin is an adipokine with potent anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing properties. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key enzyme involved in cellular energy homeostasis. Activation of AMPK has been considered as a target to reverse the metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Aim of the study   The aim of this study was to determine the effects of LA on AMPK phosphorylation and adiponectin production in adipose tissue of low-fat (control diet) and high-fat diet-fed rats. Results   Dietary supplementation with LA reduced body weight and adiposity in control and high-fat-fed rats. LA also reduced basal hyperinsulinemia as well as the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) levels, an index of insulin resistance, in high-fat-fed rats, which was in part independent of their food intake lowering actions. Furthermore, AMPK phosphorylation was increased in white adipose tissue (WAT) from LA-treated rats as compared with pair-fed animals. Dietary supplementation with LA also upregulated adiponectin gene expression in WAT, while a negative correlation between adiposity-corrected adiponectin levels and HOMA index was found. Our present data suggest that the ability of LA supplementation to prevent insulin resistance in high-fat diet-fed rats might be related in part to the stimulation of AMPK and adiponectin in WAT. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0384-7 Authors Pedro L. Prieto-Hontoria, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, Physiology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea, 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain Patricia Pérez-Matute, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, Physiology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea, 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain Marta Fernández-Galilea, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, Physiology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea, 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain J. Alfredo Martínez, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, Physiology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea, 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain María J. Moreno-Aliaga, Department of Nutrition, Food Science, Physiology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea, 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description:    Purpose Glutamine and arginine modulate inflammatory responses of epithelial cells and monocytes. Here, we studied the response of human mast cells to pharmacological doses of arginine and glutamine. Methods   Mast cells isolated from intestinal tissue were incubated with physiological doses of arginine (0.1 mmol/L) and glutamine (0.6 mmol/L) or with pharmacological doses of arginine (2 mmol/L) and glutamine (10 mmol/L) for 18 h. Following stimulation by IgE receptor crosslinking mast cell mediators were measured by enzymatic assay, ELISA, multiplex bead immunoassay, or real-time RT-PCR, and activation of intracellular signaling molecules was determined using proteome profiler array or immunoblotting. Results   We found that the combined challenge of mast cells with pharmacological doses of arginine and glutamine caused a decrease in induced release of de novo synthesized leukotriene C 4 but not of pre-stored β-hexosaminidase. Moreover, we found reduced expression of chemokines monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (CCL2), macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (CCL4), IL-8 (CXCL8), and TNF in response to high doses of both amino acids. The anti-inflammatory effects of arginine and glutamine were associated with decreased activation levels of signaling molecules known to be involved in mast cell cytokine expression such as MAPK family members extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38, and the protein kinase B (Akt). Conclusion   Arginine and glutamine attenuate IgE-dependent human mast cell activation by decreasing lipid mediator release and expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0353-1 Authors Sandra Lechowski, Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Katharina Feilhauer, Clinic for Visceral Surgery, Katharinen Hospital, Kriegsbergstraße 60, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany Ludger Staib, Clinic for Visceral Surgery, Klinikum Esslingen, Hirschlandstraße 97, 73730 Esslingen, Germany Moïse Coëffier, Appareil Digestif Environnement Nutrition ADEN EA4311, Institute for Biomedical Research, European Institute for Peptide Research (IFRMP 23), Rouen University and Rouen University Hospital, 22, Bld Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France Stephan C. Bischoff, Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Axel Lorentz, Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   To assess hepatic de novo lipogenesis and mitochondrial energetics as well as whole-body energy homeostasis in sedentary rats fed a fructose-rich diet. Methods   Male rats of 90 days of age were fed a high-fructose or control diet for 8 weeks. Body composition, energy balance, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, non-protein respiratory quotient, de novo lipogenesis and insulin resistance were measured. Determination of specific activity of hepatic enzymes of de novo lipogenesis, mitochondrial mass, oxidative capacity and degree of coupling, together with parameters of oxidative stress and antioxidant defence, was also carried out. Results   Body energy and lipid content as well as plasma insulin and non-esterified fatty acids were significantly higher in fructose-fed than in control rats. Significantly higher rates of net de novo lipogenesis and activities of hepatic lipogenic enzymes fatty acid synthase and stearoyl CoA desaturase-1 were found in fructose-fed rats compared to controls. Mitochondrial protein mass and degree of coupling were significantly higher in fructose-fed rats compared to controls. Hepatic mitochondria showed oxidative damage, both in the lipid and in the protein component, together with decreased activity of antioxidant defence. Conclusion   Liver mitochondrial compartment is highly affected by fructose feeding. The increased mitochondrial efficiency allows liver cells to burn less substrates to produce ATP for de novo lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis. In addition, increased lipogenesis gives rise to whole body and ectopic lipid deposition, and higher mitochondrial coupling causes mitochondrial oxidative stress. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0356-y Authors Raffaella Crescenzo, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Francesca Bianco, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Italia Falcone, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Paola Coppola, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Giovanna Liverini, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Susanna Iossa, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Naples, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant’Angelo, Edificio 7, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   As a diet rich in fructose and an impaired intestinal barrier function have been proposed to be risk factors for the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the aim of the present pilot study was to determine whether a dietary intervention focusing on a reduction of fructose intake (−50 % in comparison with baseline) has a beneficial effect on liver status. Methods   A total of 15 patients with NAFLD were enrolled in the study of which 10 finished the study. Fructose and total nutrient intake were assessed using a diet history. At baseline and after 6 months liver status and markers of intestinal barrier function as well as plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-) 1 concentration were determined in plasma. Results   Hepatic lipid content and transaminases in plasma as well as body mass index and some parameters of glucose metabolism (e.g., fasting plasma insulin) were significantly lower at the end of the intervention when compared to baseline. Whereas the dietary intervention had no effect on the prevalence of bacterial overgrowth, orocecal transit time and the intestinal permeability or blood ethanol levels endotoxin and PAI-1 concentration in plasma were significantly lower at the end of 6 months intervention period than at baseline. Conclusions   Taken together, our results indicate that a dietary intervention focusing only on one dietary parameter like fructose may help to decrease intrahepatic fat content of NAFLD patients. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0355-z Authors Valentina Volynets, Department of Nutritional Medicine (180 a), University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Jürgen Machann, Section on Experimental Radiology, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Tuebingen University Hospital, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 3, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany Markus A. Küper, Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Tuebingen University Hospital, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 3, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany Ina B. Maier, Department of Nutritional Medicine (180 a), University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Astrid Spruss, Department of Nutritional Medicine (180 a), University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Alfred Königsrainer, Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Tuebingen University Hospital, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 3, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany Stephan C. Bischoff, Department of Nutritional Medicine (180 a), University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Ina Bergheim, Department of Nutritional Medicine (180 a), University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstraße 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Fruits and nuts may prevent or reverse common human health conditions such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension; together, these conditions are referred to as metabolic syndrome, an increasing problem. This study has investigated the responses to ellagic acid, present in many fruits and nuts, in a diet-induced rat model of metabolic syndrome. Methods   Eight- to nine-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into four groups for 16-week feeding with cornstarch diet ( C ), cornstarch diet supplemented with ellagic acid (CE), high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet ( H ) and high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet supplemented with ellagic acid (HE). CE and HE rats were given 0.8 g/kg ellagic acid in food from week 8 to 16 only. At the end of 16 weeks, cardiovascular, hepatic and metabolic parameters along with protein levels of Nrf2, NF-κB and CPT1 in the heart and the liver were characterised. Results   High-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-fed rats developed cardiovascular remodelling, impaired ventricular function, impaired glucose tolerance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with increased protein levels of NF-κB and decreased protein levels of Nrf2 and CPT1 in the heart and the liver. Ellagic acid attenuated these diet-induced symptoms of metabolic syndrome with normalisation of protein levels of Nrf2, NF-κB and CPT1. Conclusions   Ellagic acid derived from nuts and fruits such as raspberries and pomegranates may provide a useful dietary supplement to decrease the characteristic changes in metabolism and in cardiac and hepatic structure and function induced by a high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0358-9 Authors Sunil K. Panchal, Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia Leigh Ward, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia Lindsay Brown, Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   Low serum 25(OH)D concentration has been shown to predict the occurrence of several chronic diseases. It is, however, still unclear whether the associations are causal or due to confounding. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between serum 25(OH)D concentration and sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic health-related factors. Methods   The study population comprised 5,714 men and women, aged 30–79 years, from the Health 2000 Survey representing the Finnish population. Serum 25(OH)D concentration was determined by radioimmunoassay from serum samples frozen at −70 °C. Sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic factors were determined by questionnaires, interviews and measurements. Linear regression was used to assess the associations between serum 25(OH)D and the factors studied. Results   The mean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 45.3 nmol/l and it varied between categories of sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic health variables. Older age, being married or cohabiting and higher education were related to higher serum 25(OH)D concentration. Those with the healthiest lifestyle estimated by a lifestyle index based on body mass index, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption and diet had 15.8 nmol/l higher serum 25(OH)D concentration compared to those with the unhealthiest lifestyle. Of the indicators of metabolic health, only waist circumference and HDL cholesterol were significantly associated with 25(OH)D after adjustment for sociodemographic, lifestyle and other metabolic health factors. Conclusion   This study suggests that serum 25(OH)D concentration is associated with a multitude of sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic health factors. Thus, it is possible that such factors confound associations observed between serum 25(OH)D concentration and chronic diseases. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0354-0 Authors Tuija Jääskeläinen, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland Paul Knekt, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland Jukka Marniemi, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Turku, Finland Laura Sares-Jäske, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland Satu Männistö, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland Markku Heliövaara, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland Ritva Järvinen, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Functional foods/ingredients and periodontal diseases Content Type Journal Article Category Supplement Pages 1-4 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0325-5 Authors Marja L. Laine, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Wim Crielaard, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Functional foods/ingredients and oral mucosal diseases Content Type Journal Article Category Supplement Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0324-6 Authors Jukka H. Meurman, Institute of Dentistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Background   Water-soluble phenolics from the oil palm possess significant biological properties. Purpose   In this study, we aimed to discover the role of oil palm phenolics (OPP) in influencing the gene expression changes caused by an atherogenic diet in mice. Methods   We fed mice with either a low-fat normal diet (14.6 % kcal/kcal fat) with distilled water, or a high-fat atherogenic diet (40.5 % kcal/kcal fat) containing cholesterol. The latter group was given either distilled water or OPP. We harvested major organs such as livers, spleens and hearts for microarray gene expression profiling analysis. We determined how OPP changed the gene expression profiles caused by the atherogenic diet. In addition to gene expression studies, we carried out physiological observations, blood hematology as well as clinical biochemistry, cytokine profiling and antioxidant assays on their blood sera. Results   Using Illumina microarrays, we found that the atherogenic diet caused oxidative stress, inflammation and increased turnover of metabolites and cells in the liver, spleen and heart. In contrast, OPP showed signs of attenuating these effects. The extract increased unfolded protein response in the liver, attenuated antigen presentation and processing in the spleen and up-regulated antioxidant genes in the heart. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction validated the microarray gene expression fold changes observed. Serum cytokine profiling showed that OPP attenuated inflammation by modulating the Th1/Th2 axis toward the latter. OPP also increased serum antioxidant activity to normal levels. Conclusion   This study suggests that OPP may possibly attenuate atherosclerosis and other forms of cardiovascular disease. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0346-0 Authors Soon-Sen Leow, Malaysian Palm Oil Board, No. 6, Persiaran Institusi, Bandar Baru Bangi, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia Shamala Devi Sekaran, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Kalyana Sundram, Malaysian Palm Oil Council, 2nd Floor, Wisma Sawit, Lot 6, SS6, Jalan Perbandaran, 47301 Kelana Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia YewAi Tan, Malaysian Palm Oil Board, No. 6, Persiaran Institusi, Bandar Baru Bangi, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia Ravigadevi Sambanthamurthi, Malaysian Palm Oil Board, No. 6, Persiaran Institusi, Bandar Baru Bangi, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207

Description: Purpose   We investigated the roles of age, vitamin B 12 markers, and the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism as determinants of folate forms in serum. Methods   We measured the serum concentrations of (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate, (6 S )-H 4 folate, (6 S )-5-HCO–H 4 folate, (6 R )-5,10-CH + –H 4 folate, and folic acid in 146 non-supplemented older participants (median age 74 years). The concentrations of total vitamin B 12 , holotranscobalamin (holoTC), methylmalonic acid (MMA), and total homocysteine (tHcy) were also measured. Results   Elevated metabolites (MMA 〉 271 nmol/L and tHcy 〉 12.0 μmol/L) were found in 24.0 and 63.0 % of the participants, respectively. We found a significant age-dependent decrease (participants with a median age of 87 years compared with participants with a median age of 60 years) in the sum of serum folate levels, the (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate concentration, and the (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate proportion. In addition, participants with elevated metabolite levels were older, had lower concentrations of the sum of folates and (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate, and had higher concentrations of (6 S )-5-CHO–H 4 folate and creatinine but had a comparable holoTC/total vitamin B 12 ratio. No association was found between the MTHFR C677T genotype and serum folate forms. Conclusion   Low serum (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate concentrations and the proportion of (6 S )-5-CH 3 –H 4 folate (percentage of the sum of folate forms) are related to older age and elevated MMA and tHcy levels. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Contribution Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0351-3 Authors Susanne H. Kirsch, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Building 57, 66421 Homburg, Saarland, Germany Wolfgang Herrmann, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Building 57, 66421 Homburg, Saarland, Germany Rudolf Eckert, Geriatric Health Center, 66386 St. Ingbert, Germany Jürgen Geisel, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Building 57, 66421 Homburg, Saarland, Germany Rima Obeid, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Building 57, 66421 Homburg, Saarland, Germany Journal European Journal of Nutrition Online ISSN 1436-6215 Print ISSN 1436-6207