ALBERT

Description: Purpose Maintenance of cognitive abilities is important for elderly to stay independent. With the aging of the population, the call for modifiable factors is emerging. Dietary protein might improve cognitive performance; however, this has hardly been studied. Therefore, we studied the impact of 24-week dietary protein supplementation on cognitive performance in pre-frail and frail elderly people. Methods Pre-frail and frail elderly subjects, according to the Fried criteria, randomly received a protein drink containing 15 g protein or a placebo drink twice a day. Cognitive performance was measured at baseline and after 24 weeks by means of a sensitive neuropsychological test battery. In addition, reaction time was assessed after both 12 and 24 weeks of intervention. Domain scores were calculated for the domains episodic memory, attention and working memory, information processing speed, and executive functioning. Analyses of covariance were used to determine differences between groups. Linear mixed models were used to determine differences in reaction time over time and per treatment. Results In total, 65 subjects (79 ± 8 years) with a median Mini-Mental State Examination score of 28 (interquartile range 26–30) were included. Reaction time improved more in the protein group (68 ms) than in the placebo group (18 ms, P  = 0.03). Dietary protein had no significant effect on any of the cognitive domain scores. Conclusions Protein supplementation might improve reaction time performance in pre-frail and frail elderly, but did not improve other cognitive functions.

Description: Purpose Up-to-date knowledge about vitamin D supply and serum concentration in Germany is not sufficient. Our purpose was to compare a novel holistic bottom-up modeling of 25(OH)D concentrations with vitamin D sources such as sunlight, food and supplements for all federal states taking seasonal and geographical variations into account. The second purpose was to update and detail vitamin D supply through food in Germany. Methods To confirm the model of 25(OH)D concentrations, we used the population (1,763 men and 2,267 women, 18–79 years) participated in the representative German National Health Interview and Examination Survey 1998 and the integrated German Nutrition Survey. Results The maximum model value is 67.5 nmol/L in July and minimum model value is 29.3 nmol/L in January, while the average model value is 45.0 nmol/L. Men have a mean daily intake of 137 IU (3.42 μg) and women of 112 IU (2.79 μg). Correlation between model and actual data is 0.77 ( p  = 0.003). Conclusions A comparison of the model data with population-based values showed good agreement. None of the vitamin D sources can provide the German population with enough vitamin D.

Description: Purpose Some researchers found decreased levels of plasma taurine in obese subjects and animals, and reduced expression of an important enzyme of taurine synthesis. These evidences, coupled with the metabolic imbalance of obesity and the possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of taurine, highlighted the use of taurine as a supplement in obesity treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether taurine supplementation, associated with nutritional counseling, modulates oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and glucose homeostasis in obese women. Methods A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was conducted with 16 women with obesity diagnosis and 8 women in the normal weight range. The obese volunteers were matched by age and body mass index and randomly assigned to either the placebo (3 g/day starch flour) or taurine (3 g/day taurine) group. The study lasted 8 weeks, and the experimental protocol included nutritional assessment and determination of plasma sulfur amino acids, insulin, and adiponectin, serum glycemia, and markers of inflammatory response and oxidative stress. Results Plasma taurine levels were significantly decreased (41 %) in the obese volunteers. Both the placebo and taurine groups showed significant reduction in weight (3 %), with no differences between groups. Different from placebo, taurine-supplemented group showed significant increase in plasma taurine (97 %) and adiponectin (12 %) and significant reduction in the inflammatory marker hs-C-reactive protein (29 %) and in the lipid peroxidation marker thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (20 %). Conclusions Eight weeks of taurine supplementation associated with nutritional counseling is able to increase adiponectin levels and to decrease markers of inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) in obese women.

Description: Purpose Even mild iodine deficiency may negatively affect cognitive performance, especially at a young age. Our aim was to investigate iodine status in very young children and to assess the importance of iodized salt in processed foods of which the use has decreased during the last years in Germany. Methods Twenty-four hours urinary iodine excretion (UIE) as a marker of iodine intake was measured in 378 24 h urine samples collected 2003–2010 by 221 3 to 〈6 years old participants of the DONALD Study. Parallel 3-d weighed dietary records and measurements of urinary sodium excretion provided data on the daily consumption of the most important iodine sources in the children’s diet (iodized salt, milk, fish, meat and eggs). Time trends of UIE (2003–2010) and contributions of the different food groups were analyzed by using linear mixed-effects regression models. Results Median UIE of 71 μg/d in boys and 65 μg/d in girls ( P  = 0.03), corresponding to an iodine intake of 82 and 75 μg/d, respectively (assumption: 15 % non-renal iodine losses), was below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 90 μg/d. Milk, salt and egg intake were significant predictors of UIE; milk and salt together accounted for 〉80 % of iodine supply. Between 2003 and 2010, UIE decreased significantly by approximately 1 μg/d per year. The contribution of salt intake to UIE decreased from 2003–2006 to 2007–2010. Conclusion In countries where salt is a major iodine source, already modest decreases in the iodized proportion of salt used in processed foods may relevantly impair iodine status even in preschool children.

Description: Purpose Urolithins, gut microbiota metabolites derived from ellagic acid and ellagitannins, reach micromolar concentrations in the colon lumen where can have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. The antiproliferative activity of urolithins (Uro-A, Uro-B, Uro-C and Uro-D) and their most relevant in vivo glucuronides were evaluated in three human colon cancer cell lines (Caco-2, SW480 and HT-29). Methods Cell proliferation was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide and Trypan blue exclusion assays. Cell cycle was evaluated by flow cytometry and urolithins metabolism by HPLC–MS/MS. Results Urolithins inhibited cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in a time- and dose-dependent manner and arrested the cells at S and G2/M phases, depending on the urolithin. Uro-A exerted the highest antiproliferative activity, followed by Uro-C, Uro-D and Uro-B. Unlike Caco-2 and SW480 cells, HT-29 cells partially overcame the effects after 48 h, which was related to the complete glucuronidation of urolithins. Uro-A or Uro-B glucuronides did not affect cell cycle and showed lower antiproliferative activity than their aglycone counterparts. Uro-A or Uro-B plus inhibitors of drug efflux ABC transporters partially prevented the glucuronidation of urolithins in HT-29 cells which became more sensitive. Conclusions Uro-A, Uro-B, Uro-C and Uro-D exerted different antiproliferative effects depending on the colon cancer cell line. We also report here, for the first time, the role of ABC transporters and Phase-II metabolism in HT-29 cells as a mechanism of cancer resistance against urolithins due to their conversion to glucuronide conjugates that exerted lower antiproliferative activity.

Description: Purpose The primary objective of this study is to investigate the content of biologically active compounds producing an antioxidant effect in Plantago maxima and their influence on main mechanisms of dietary obesity development. Methods Biologically active compounds in P. maxima were tested using paper chromatography. In in vivo experiment, high-fat-fed Wistar rats obtained P. maxima water extract for 3 months. Morphometric parameters, weight gain, serum adipokines, and cytokines, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers in rats’ tissues were evaluated. Gut microflora was also examined. Results Plantago maxima leaves used in the experiment contained significant amount of flavonoids, iridoids, phenol carboxylic acids, and tannins and ascorbic acid. Our in vivo experiment data demonstrate that P. maxima water extract prevents excessive adiposity in a diet-induced model. P. maxima consumption reduced serum leptin (twofold), macrophage chemoattractant protein-1 (sevenfold), tumor-necrosis factor-α (25 %), and interleukine-6 (26 %) levels. P. maxima water extract decreased adipose tissue oxidative stress biomarkers in rats fed a high-fat diet. In addition, increased bacterial growth in the diet-induced obesity model was reversed by the P. maxima extract treatment. Conclusion Plantago maxima water extract possessed antiadipogenic, antidiabetic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant activity, and normalized gut microflora in a rat model of diet-induced excessive adiposity due to a high content of biologically active compounds.

Description: Purpose d , l -Sulforaphane (SFN) is a promising chemopreventive agent with in vivo efficacy against prostate cancer in experimental rodents. This study was undertaken to determine the role of vimentin and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in anticancer effects of SFN. Methods Effect of SFN on levels of different proteins was determined by Western blotting or immunofluorescence microscopy. RNA interference of vimentin and PAI-1 was achieved by transient transfection. Apoptosis was quantified by flow cytometry. Transwell chambers were used to determine cell migration. Results Exposure of PC-3 and DU145 human prostate cancer cells to SFN resulted in induction of vimentin protein, which was accompanied by down-regulation of E-cadherin protein expression. The SFN-mediated induction of vimentin was also observed in a normal human prostate epithelial cell line. RNA interference of vimentin did not have any appreciable effect on early or late apoptosis resulting from SFN exposure. On the other hand, SFN-mediated inhibition of PC-3 and DU145 cell migration was significantly augmented by knockdown of the vimentin protein. Knockdown of vimentin itself was inhibitory against cell migration. The SFN-treated cells also exhibited induction of PAI-1, which is an endogenous inhibitor of urokinase-type plasminogen activator system. Similar to vimentin, PAI-1 knockdown resulted in a modest augmentation of PC-3 cell migration inhibition by SFN. Tumors from SFN-treated transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate mice showed a 1.7-fold increase in vimentin protein level compared with control tumors. Conclusion The present study indicates that vimentin and PAI-1 inductions confer modest protection against SFN-mediated inhibition of prostate cancer cell migration.

Description: Purpose Since obesity is associated with poorer iron status, the effects of diet-induced obesity on iron status and iron-regulatory pathways were examined. Methods Weanling male diet-induced obese sensitive ( n  = 12/diet group) and resistant ( n  = 12/diet group) rats were fed one of four high-fat, high-energy diets supplemented with 5 (5Fe, low), 15 (15Fe, marginal), 35 (35Fe, normal) or 70 (70Fe, high) mg iron/kg diet for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, rats in each diet group were categorised as obese (〉19 %) or lean (〈17 %) based on percentage body fat. Results Obese rats gained more weight, had larger total lean mass, consumed more food and showed greater feed efficiency compared with lean rats. Obese rats fed the 5Fe and 15Fe diets had poorer iron status than lean rats fed the same diet. Obese 5Fe rats had lower serum iron and more severe iron-deficiency anaemia. Obese 15Fe rats had lower mean corpuscular haemoglobin and liver iron concentrations. Hepcidin mRNA expression in liver and adipose tissue was similar for obese and lean rats. Iron concentration and content of the iron transporters divalent metal transporter 1 and ferroportin 1 in duodenal mucosa were also similar. Conclusions Obese rats that were larger, regardless of adiposity, had higher iron requirements compared with lean rats that appeared independent of hepcidin, inflammation and intestinal iron absorption. Higher iron requirements may have resulted from larger accretion of body mass and blood volume. Greater food consumption did not compensate for the higher iron needs, indicating increased susceptibility to iron deficiency.

Description: Introduction Neutrophils provide the first line of defense of the innate immune system by phagocytosing, killing and digesting bacteria and fungi. During this process, neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in excess, can damage the cells themselves and surrounding tissues. The carotenoid fucoxanthin (Fc) has been studied concerning its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Vitamin c (Vc) also demonstrates potent antioxidant action. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Fc (2 μM) in association with Vc (100 μM) on functional parameters of human neutrophils in vitro. Materials and methods We evaluated the migration and phagocytic capacity, intracellular calcium mobilization, ROS production (O 2 ·− , H 2 O 2 , HOCl), myeloperoxidase activity, profile of antioxidant enzymes, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and p65 NFκB subunit, GSH/GSSG ratio and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in neutrophils under different stimuli. Results We verified an increase in phagocytic capacity for all treatments, together with an increase in intracellular calcium only in cells treated with Fc and Fc + Vc. ROS production was reduced by all treatments, although Vc was a better antioxidant than Fc. Phosphorylation of the p-65 subunit of NFκB was reduced in cells treated with Fc + Vc and release of TNF-α and IL-6 was reduced by all treatments. These findings indicate that the regulation of inflammatory cytokines by neutrophils is not exclusively under the control of the NFκB pathway. Fc reduced the activity of some antioxidant enzymes, whereas Vc increased GR activity and the GSH/GSSG ratio. Conclusion In conclusion, the results presented in this study clearly show an immunomodulatory effect of the carotenoid fc alone or in combination with Vc on the function of human neutrophils.

Description: Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between proxy-reported energy intake, daily food intake and energy density of foods and body mass index (BMI) z -score in 2–9-year-old European children. Methods From 16,225 children who participated in the identification and prevention of dietary- and lifestyle-induced health effects in children and infants (IDEFICS) baseline examination, 9,782 children with 24-h proxy dietary information and complete covariate information were included in the analysis. Participating children were classified according to adapted Goldberg cutoffs: underreports, plausible energy reports and overreports. Energy intake, daily food intake and energy density of foods excluding noncaloric beverages were calculated for all eating occasions. Effect of energy intake, daily food intake and energy density of foods on BMI z -score was investigated using multilevel regression models in the full sample and subsample of plausible energy reports. Exposure variables were included separately; daily food intake and energy intake were addressed in a combined model to check for interactions. Results In the group of plausible energy reports ( N  = 8,544), energy intake and daily food intake were significantly positively associated with BMI z -score. Energy density of foods was not associated with BMI z -score. In the model including energy intake, food intake and an interaction term, only energy intake showed a significantly positive effect on BMI z -score. In the full sample ( N  = 9,782), only energy intake was significantly but negatively associated with BMI z -score. Conclusion Proxy-reporters are subject to misreporting, especially for children in the higher BMI levels. Energy intake is a more important predictor of unhealthy weight development in children than daily food intake.

Description: Purpose A low calcium intake (LCaI) may predispose to obesity, and excessive fat mass may be detrimental to bone. The impact of Ca inadequacy would be greater in subjects predisposed to obesity. LCaI effect on obesity development during the rapid growth period was compared in two strains of rats: spontaneously obese IIMb/β (O) and Wistar (W). Pregnant rats were fed 0.5 % (N) or 0.2 % (L) of Ca (OLCa, ONCa, WLCa and WNCa). Male pups were fed the maternal diet until day 60. Methods Body composition, lipid profile, glucose homeostasis, 25 hydroxyvitamin D, Ca-phosphorus, and bone metabolism were evaluated. Results BW and body fat were higher, whereas body protein was lower in OLCa versus ONCa ( p  〈 0.05). OLCa presented the highest body fat, glucose, non-HDL and total cholesterol, TGL, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR, liver weight, and adipose perigonadal plus retroperitoneal pads ( p  〈 0.05). WLCa did not exhibit an increase BW and only showed a slight change in body composition with minor biochemical alterations compared to WNCa ( p  〈 0.05). Osteocalcin, CTX, and proximal tibia and lumbar spine BMDs were lower in O than in W rats fed the same Ca diet ( p  〈 0.05). Body ash and Ca content, and total skeleton BMC/BW were lower in OLCa and WLCa versus their corresponding NCa groups ( p  〈 0.05). Conclusion The negative effect of a low Ca diet on fat mass accumulation and lipid profile may be more evident in rats predisposed to obesity. Nevertheless, low CaI interferes with the normal glucose homeostasis leading to an increase in insulin resistance. Low CaI during early growth may be an obesogenic factor that may persist into adult life and may account for the development of obesity and some of its co-morbidities.

Description: Purpose The soluble fiber β-glucan, a natural component of barley, has been shown to lower the postprandial glucose response and is thought to improve insulin resistance. Methods This study examined the effect of chronic consumption of the high β-glucan barley flour on glucose control, liver lipids and markers of muscle fatty acid oxidation in the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat. Two groups of ZDF rats were fed diets containing either 6 % β-glucan in the form of barley flour or cellulose as a control for 6 weeks. A group of Zucker lean rats served as a negative control. Results The barley flour group had an increased small intestinal contents viscosity compared to the obese control group. After 6 weeks, the barley flour group had reduced glycated hemoglobin, lower relative kidney weights and a reduced area under the curve during a glucose tolerance test, indicating improved glucose control. Fasting plasma adiponectin levels increased in the barley flour group and were not different than the lean control group. ZDF rats on the barley flour diet had lower relative epididymal fat pad weights than the obese control and a greater food efficiency ratio. The barley flour group also had reduced liver weights and a decreased concentration of liver lipids. The barley flour group had significantly higher concentrations of muscle acylcarnitines, a metabolite generated during fatty acid oxidation. Conclusion These results show that chronic consumption of β-glucans can improve glucose control and decrease fatty liver in a model of diabetes with obesity.

Description: Purpose Rats given sugar-sweetened drinks can develop glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia. The aim of this study was to investigate whether such metabolic disruptions and also possible weight gain induced by chronic sucrose consumption could be attenuated by low-volume exercise. Methods Using a 2 × 2 factorial design, rats were given free access for 57 days to either a 10 % sucrose solution ( Suc and SucEx ) or water only ( Con and ConEx ), while exercise rats ( SucEx and ConEx ) received 20-min treadmill training every 3 days. Caloric intake and body weight were measured throughout this dietary intervention. Oral glucose tolerance tests were performed on days 29 and 54. Plasma insulin, triglycerides and leptin were also measured, together with post-mortem measures of retroperitoneal fat pads and liver triglycerides. Results In groups given sucrose, exercise reduced calorie consumption, reduced weight gain and decreased leptin relative to non-exercised controls. Exercise was found to improve glucose tolerance and insulin action at day 29, but not day 54. Conclusions Low-volume exercise can be effective in preventing weight gain in sucrose-fed rats, probably via reduction of subcutaneous fat, but prevention of the glucose intolerance and dyslipidaemia produced by sucrose consumption may be transient.

Description: Purpose Laboratory studies have suggested that vitamin D inadequacy may be implicated in development of hypertension. Evidence from epidemiologic studies remains limited. We aim to examine the prospective associations of circulating vitamin D metabolites, vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms, and their interaction with risk of hypertension. Methods We conducted prospective analyses among 1,211 US men that were free of baseline hypertension and had baseline plasma 25hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D) or 1,25dihydroxy-vitamin D (1,25(OH) 2 D) measured and VDR Bsm I or Fok I polymorphisms genotyped. Results During 15.3-year follow-up, 695 men developed incident hypertension. After multivariable adjustment, the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 % CIs for hypertension across increasing quartiles of plasma vitamin D metabolites were 1.00 (ref), 0.94 (0.69–1.27), 0.69 (0.50–0.96), and 0.82 (0.60–1.13) for 25(OH)D ( p , trend: 0.43), and 1.00, 0.92 (0.66–1.27), 1.12 (0.82–1.54), and 1.19 (0.86–1.63) for 1,25(OH) 2 D ( p , trend: 0.16). Compared with carriers of VDR Bsm I bb, carriers of bB or BB had a HR of 1.25 (1.04–1.51) for hypertension. For VDR Fok I polymorphism, compared with carriers of FF and Ff combined, carriers of ff had a HR of 1.32 (1.03–1.70). The relation between plasma 25(OH)D and risk of hypertension did not differ by VDR Bsm I and Fok I polymorphisms. Conclusions In a prospective cohort of men, we found suggestive evidence for an inverse association between plasma 25(OH)D and risk of hypertension. We also found associations between VDR Bsm I and Fok I polymorphisms with hypertension risk. More research is needed to further determine the role of vitamin D in hypertension prevention.

Description: Purpose The dietary sesamol is one of the important constituent of sesame seed that has been mainly claimed to combat cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which are the major secondary complications of arthritis. Thus, the present study was designed to evaluate the anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory and anti-stress potentials of sesamol. Methods Arthritis was induced using Freund’s complete adjuvant to hind paw of experimental rats. The physical and biochemical alterations and its recovery by sesamol were assessed by measuring enzymatic and non-enzymatic mediators. Arthritis-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and their protective by sesamol were measured by determining the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Results In the present study, sesamol was demonstrated to alleviate arthritis-induced cartilage degeneration by mitigating augmented serum levels of hyaluronidase and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-13, MMP-3 and MMP-9). It also protected bone resorption by reducing the elevated levels of bone joint exoglycosidases, cathepsin D and tartarate-resistant acid phosphatases. Sesamol also abrogated the non-enzymatic inflammatory markers (TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, PGE 2 , ROS, and H 2 O 2 ,) effectively. In addition, sesamol neutralizes arthritis-induced oxidative stress by restoring the levels of reactive oxygen species, lipid and hydro peroxides and sustained antioxidant homeostasis by re-establishing altered activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione-s-transferase. Conclusion Taken together, the study demonstrated the anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress and chondro-protective potentials of sesamol in vivo. Thus, sesamol could be a single bullet that can fight arthritis as well as the secondary complications of arthritis such as cardio vascular disorders and diabetes.

Description: Purpose We previously reported that two substrains of C57BL/6 mice respond differently to oats with respect to reduction in plasma cholesterol. Analysis of this difference might offer clues to mechanisms behind the cholesterol-lowering effect of oats. Here, we address the possible roles of hepatic steroid metabolism and the intestinal microbiota in this respect. Methods Female C57BL/6 mice were fed an atherogenic diet with oat bran (27 %) or control fibres for 4 weeks. Results C57BL/6 NCrl mice responded to oat bran with 19 ± 1 % ( P  〈 0.001) lower plasma cholesterol, 40 ± 5 % ( P  〈 0.01) higher excretion of bile acids and increased expression of the bile acid-producing hepatic enzymes CYP7A1 and CYP8B1, but none of these effects were found in C57BL/6JBomTac mice. However, on control diet, C57BL/6JBomTac had tenfold higher expression of CYP7A1 and levels of hepatic cholesterol esters than C57BL/6NCrl mice. Plasma levels of fructosamine indicated improved glycemic control by oat bran in C57BL/6NCrl but not in C57BL/6JBomTac. C57BL/6JBomTac had higher intestinal microbiota diversity, but lower numbers of Enterobacteriaceae , Akkermansia and Bacteroides Fragilis than C57BL/6NCrl mice. Oat bran increased bacterial numbers in both substrains. Microbiota diversity was reduced by oats in C57BL/6JBomTac, but unaffected in C57BL/6NCrl. Conclusions Our data do not support a connection between altered microbiota diversity and reduced plasma cholesterol, but the bacterial composition in the intestine may influence the effects of added fibres. The cholesterol-lowering properties of oats involve increased production of bile acids via the classical pathway with up-regulation of CYP7A1 and CYP8B1. Altered cholesterol or bile acid metabolism may interfere with the potential of oats to reduce plasma cholesterol.

Description: Background/objectives Individuals with type 1 diabetes have a high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, and it has been reported that they consume a high atherogenic diet. We examined how nutrient intake and adherence to current European nutritional recommendations evolved in a large cohort of European individuals with type 1 diabetes over a period of 7 years. Subjects/methods We analysed data from the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study, a European multicentre prospective cohort study. Standardized 3-day dietary records were employed in individuals with type 1 diabetes. One thousand one hundred and two patients (553 men, 549 women, baseline age 33 ± 10 years, duration 15 ± 9 years) had complete nutritional data available at baseline and after 7 years. We calculated mean differences in reported nutrients over time and adjusted these for age, gender, HbA 1c and BMI with ANOVA models. Results Compared to baseline, there were minor changes in nutrients. Reported protein (−0.35 % energy (en), fat (−1.07 % en), saturated fat (−0.25 % en) and cholesterol (−7.42 mg/1000 kcal) intakes were lower, whereas carbohydrate (+1.23 % en) and fibre (+0.46 g/1000 kcal) intakes were higher at the 7-year follow-up. European recommendations for adequate nutrient intakes were followed in individuals with type 1 diabetes for protein (76 % at baseline and 78 % at follow-up), moderately for fat (34, 40 %), carbohydrate (34, 41 %) and cholesterol (39, 47 %), but poorly for fibre (1.4, 2.4 %) and saturated fat (11, 13 %). Conclusion European individuals with type 1 diabetes consume a high atherogenic diet as few patients met recommendations for dietary fibre and saturated fat. This study showed minor changes in dietary nutrients and energy intakes over a period of 7 years. Nutrition education needs particular focus on strategies to increase dietary fibre and reduce saturated fat to exploit their potential benefit.

Description: Purpose Tocotrienol possess beneficial effects not exhibited by tocopherol. In vitro studies using animal models have suggested that these effects are caused via modulation of gene and protein expression. However, human supplementation studies using tocotrienol-rich isomers are limited. This study aims to identify plasma proteins that changed in expression following tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) supplementation within two different age groups. Methods Subjects were divided into two age groups—32 ± 2 (young) and 52 ± 2 (old) years old. Four subjects from each group were assigned with TRF (78 % tocotrienol and 22 % tocopherol, 150 mg/day) or placebo capsules for 6 months. Fasting plasma were obtained at 0, 3, and 6 months. Plasma tocopherol and tocotrienol levels were determined. Plasma proteome was resolved by 2DE, and differentially expressed proteins identified by MS. The expressions of three proteins were validated by Western blotting. Results Six months of TRF supplementation significantly increased plasma levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Proteins identified as being differentially expressed were related to cholesterol homeostasis, acute-phase response, protease inhibitor, and immune response. The expressions of Apolipoprotein A-I precursor, Apolipoprotein E precursor, and C-reactive protein precursor were validated. The old groups showed more proteins changing in expression. Conclusions TRF appears to not only affect plasma levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols, but also the levels of plasma proteins. The identity of these proteins may provide insights into how TRF exerts its beneficial effects. They may also be potentially developed into biomarkers for the study of the effects and effectiveness of TRF supplementation.

Description: Purpose Preterm infants are at risk for suboptimal bone mineralization. Postnatal bone formation requires optimal nutritional composition. This study evaluated the effect of isocaloric, protein-, and mineral-enriched postdischarge formula (PDF), standard term formula (TF), and human milk (HM) on gain in bone mineral content (BMC) of preterm infants between term age (40 weeks postmenstrual age) and 6 months corrected age (CA). Methods Between term age and 6 months CA, 93 preterm infants were randomized to be fed PDF ( n  = 52) or TF ( n  = 41) and 46 preterm infants were fed HM. Weight (g) and length (cm) were measured at birth, term age, and 6 months CA. BMC (g) was measured by whole-body dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at term age and 6 months CA. Results Gain in BMC (expressed as median with interquartile range) between term age and 6 months CA was higher in PDF-fed infants (102.3 (32.4) g) compared to TF- and HM-fed infants (91.6 (24.5) and 84.5 (33.3) g, respectively), adjusted for gender, gestational age, birthweight, and gain in weight and length. Conclusion Between term age and 6 months CA, isocaloric PDF enhances gain in BMC of preterm infants, independent of gain in weight and length. We speculate that higher gain in BMC during infancy may improve adult bone mass in preterm infants.

Description: Purpose To further inform the debate on the possible cognitive benefits of antioxidant nutrients in the elderly, we systematically reviewed available prospective studies while paying a special attention to their methodological quality. Methods This is a systematic review of studies involving major antioxidant nutrients and change in cognitive performance. Abstracts were independently reviewed; studies were selected based on prespecified criteria. Methodological quality of primary studies was assessed using a methodological checklist for cohort studies. Findings were presented using a narrative synthesis and tabulation of results. Results Eight-hundred and fifty potentially eligible studies were identified; 10 met the inclusion criteria and were retained for data extraction and appraisal. The main supportive evidence came from two studies, both judged to be of high quality: The first observed an accelerated decline in global cognition, attention, and psychomotor speed over 9 years, concomitant to a decrease in plasma selenium levels over the same period; the second study reported a slower rate of global cognitive decline over 3 years in persons in the highest quartile of intake of vitamins C, E, and carotenes. All associations persisted after adjustment for confounding factors. Evidence in favor of beneficial associations of higher dietary intake of vitamin E and flavonoids, as well as higher serum beta carotene levels, came from further studies of only adequate quality. Conclusions There is a possibility for protective effects of antioxidant nutrients against decline in cognition in older people although the supportive evidence is still limited in number. This association deserves further examination in additional quality investigations.

Description: Background and aim Breast cancer remains a leading cause of mortality among women. In metastasis, cascade migration of cancer cells and invasion of extracellular matrix (ECM) represent critical steps. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), as well as metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9, strongly contribute to ECM remodelling, thus becoming associated with tumour migration and invasion. In addition, the high expression of cytoskeletal (CSK) proteins, as fascin, has been correlated with clinically aggressive metastatic tumours, and CSK proteins are thought to affect the migration of cancer cells. Consumption of fruits and vegetables, characterized by high procyanidin content, has been associated to a reduced mortality for breast cancer. Therefore, we investigated the biological effect of grape seed extract (GSE) on the highly metastatic MDA-MB231 breast cancer cell line, focusing on studying GSE ability in inhibiting two main metastatic processes, i.e., cell migration and invasion. Methods After MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells stimulated with GSE migration and invasion were evaluated by means of trans-well assays and uPA as well as MMPs activity was detected by gelatin zymography. Fascin, β-catenin and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) expression were determined using western blot technique. β-Catenin localization was observed by confocal microscopy. Results We observed that high concentrations of GSE inhibited cell proliferation and apoptosis. Conversely, low GSE concentration decreased cell migration and invasion, likely by hampering β-catenin expression and localization, fascin and NF-κB expression, as well as by decreasing the activity of uPA, MMP-2 and MMP-9. Conclusions These results make GSE a powerful candidate for developing preventive agents against cancer metastasis.

Description: Assessing in situ microbial abilities of soils to degrade pesticides is of great interest giving insight in soil filtering capability, which is a key ecosystem function limiting pollution of groundwater. Quantification of pesticide-degrading gene expression by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was tested as a suitable indicator to monitor pesticide biodegradation performances in soil. RNA extraction protocol was optimized to enhance the yield and quality of RNA recovered from soil samples to perform RT-qPCR assays. As a model, the activity of atrazine-degrading communities was monitored using RT-qPCRs to estimate the level of expression of atzD in five agricultural soils showing different atrazine mineralization abilities. Interestingly, the relative abundance of atzD mRNA copy numbers was positively correlated to the maximum rate and to the maximal amount of atrazine mineralized. Our findings indicate that the quantification of pesticide-degrading gene expression may be suitable to assess biodegradation performance in soil and monitor natural attenuation of pesticide.

Description: This unique study describes how Aspergillus japonicus , Penicillium brocae and Purpureocillium lilacinum , three novel isolates of our laboratory from heavily plastics-contaminated soil completely utilized the plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) bound to PVC blood storage bags (BB) in simple basal salt medium (BSM) by static submerged growth (28 °C). Initial quantification as well as percentage utilization of DEHP blended to BB were estimated periodically by extracting it into n -hexane. A two-stage cultivation strategy was employed for the complete mycoremediation of DEHP from BB in situ. During the first growth stage, about two-third parts of total (33.5 % w/w) DEHP bound to BB were utilized in two weeks, accompanied by increased fungal biomass (~0.15–0.32 g per g BB) and sharp declining (to ~3) of initial pH (7.2). At this stagnant growth state (low pH), spent medium was replaced by fresh BSM (pH, 7.2), and thus in the second stage the remaining DEHP (one-third) in BB was utilized completely. The ditches and furrows seen from the topology of the BB as seen by the 3D AFM image further confirmed the bioremediation of DEHP physically bound to BB in situ. Of the three mycelial fungi employed, P. lilacinum independently showed highest efficiency for the complete utilization of DEHP bound to BB, whose activity was comparable to that of the consortium comprising all the three fungi described herein. To sum up, the two-stage cultivation strategy demonstrated in this study shows that a batch process would efficiently remediate the phthalic acid esters blended in plastics on a large scale, and thus it offers potentials for the management of plastics wastes.

Description: A comprehensive study on the effects of different carbon sources during the bacterial enrichment on the removal performances of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) compounds when present as a mixture was conducted. Batch BTEX removal kinetic experiments were performed using cultures enriched with individual BTEX compounds or BTEX as a mixture or benzoate alone or benzoate–BTEX mixture. An integrated Monod-type non-linear model was developed and a ratio between maximum growth rate ( μ max ) and half saturation constant (K s ) was used to fit the non-linear model. A higher μ max /K s indicates a higher affinity to degrade BTEX compounds. Complete removal of BTEX mixture was observed by all the enriched cultures; however, the removal rates for individual compounds varied. Degradation rate and the type of removal kinetics were found to be dependent on the type of carbon source during the enrichment. Cultures enriched on toluene and those enriched on BTEX mixture were found to have the greatest μ max /K s and cultures enriched on benzoate had the least μ max /K s . Removal performances of the cultures enriched on all different carbon sources, including the ones enriched on benzoate or benzoate–BTEX mixture were also improved during a second exposure to BTEX. A molecular analysis showed that after each exposure to the BTEX mixture, the cultures enriched on benzoate and those enriched on benzoate–BTEX mixture had increased similarities to the culture enriched on BTEX mixture.

Description: A genetically engineered microorganism (GEM) capable of simultaneously degrading organophosphate and organochlorine pesticides was constructed for the first time by display of organophosphorus hydrolase (OPH) on the cell surface of a hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH)-degrading Sphingobium japonicum UT26. The GEM could potentially be used for removing the two classes of pesticides that may be present in mixtures at contaminated sites. A surface anchor system derived from the truncated ice nucleation protein (INPNC) from Pseudomonas syringae was used to target OPH onto the cell surface of UT26, reducing the potential substrate uptake limitation. The surface localization of INPNC–OPH fusion was verified by cell fractionation, western blot, proteinase accessibility, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, the functionality of the surface-exposed OPH was demonstrated by OPH activity assays. Surface display of INPNC–OPH fusion (82 kDa) neither inhibited cell growth nor affected cell viability. The engineered UT26 could degrade parathion as well as γ-HCH rapidly in minimal salt medium. The removal of parathion and γ-HCH by engineered UT26 in sterile and non-sterile soil was also studied. In both soil samples, a mixture of parathion (100 mg kg −1 ) and γ-HCH (10 mg kg −1 ) could be degraded completely within 15 days. Soil treatment results indicated that the engineered UT26 is a promising multifunctional bacterium that could be used for the bioremediation of multiple pesticide-contaminated environments.

Description: Stimulation of native microbial populations in soil by the addition of small amounts of secondary carbon sources (cosubstrates) and its effect on the degradation and theoretical mineralization of DDT [l,l,l-trichloro-2,2-bis( p -chlorophenyl)ethane] and its main metabolites, DDD and DDE, were evaluated. Microbial activity in soil polluted with DDT, DDE and DDD was increased by the presence of phenol, hexane and toluene as cosubstrates. The consumption of DDT was increased from 23 % in a control (without cosubstrate) to 67, 59 and 56 % in the presence of phenol, hexane and toluene, respectively. DDE was completely removed in all cases, and DDD removal was enhanced from 67 % in the control to ~86 % with all substrates tested, except for acetic acid and glucose substrates. In the latter cases, DDD removal was either inhibited or unchanged from the control. The optimal amount of added cosubstrate was observed to be between 0.64 and 2.6 mg C $ {\text{g}}^{ - 1}_{\text{dry soil}} $ . The CO 2 produced was higher than the theoretical amount for complete cosubstrate mineralization indicating possible mineralization of DDT and its metabolites. Bacterial communities were evaluated by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, which indicated that native soil and the untreated control presented a low bacterial diversity. The detected bacteria were related to soil microorganisms and microorganisms with known biodegradative potential. In the presence of toluene a bacterium related to Azoarcus , a genus that includes species capable of growing at the expense of aromatic compounds such as toluene and halobenzoates under denitrifying conditions, was detected.

Description: Because benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) and ethanol are important contaminants present in Brazilian gasoline, it is essential to develop technology that can be used in the bioremediation of gasoline-contaminated aquifers. This paper evaluates the performance of a horizontal-flow anaerobic immobilized biomass (HAIB) reactor fed with water containing gasoline constituents under denitrifying conditions. Two HAIB reactors filled with polyurethane foam matrices (5 mm cubes, 23 kg/m 3 density and 95 % porosity) for biomass attachment were assayed. The reactor fed with synthetic substrate containing protein, carbohydrates, sodium bicarbonate and BTEX solution in ethanol, at an Hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 13.5 h, presented hydrocarbon removal efficiencies of 99 % at the following initial concentrations: benzene 6.7 mg/L, toluene 4.9 mg/L, m -xylene and p -xylene 7.2 mg/L, ethylbenzene 3.7 mg/L, and nitrate 60 mg N/L. The HAIB reactor fed with gasoline-contaminated water at an HRT of 20 h showed hydrocarbon removal efficiencies of 96 % at the following initial concentrations: benzene, 4.9 mg/L; toluene, 7.2 mg/L; m -xylene, 3.7 mg/L; and nitrate 400 mg N/L. Microbiological observations along the length of the HAIB reactor fed with gasoline-contaminated water confirmed that in the first segment of the reactor, denitrifying metabolism predominated, whereas from the first sampling port on, the metabolism observed was predominantly methanogenic.

Description: Burkholderia sp. C3, an efficient polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon degrader, can utilize nine of the ten N -methylcarbamate insecticides including carbaryl as a sole source of carbon. Rapid hydrolysis of carbaryl in C3 is followed by slow catabolism of the resulting 1-naphthol. This study focused on metabolomes and proteomes in C3 cells utilizing carbaryl in comparison to those using glucose or nutrient broth. Sixty of the 867 detected proteins were involved in primary metabolism, adaptive sensing and regulation, transport, stress response, and detoxification. Among the 41 proteins expressed in response to carbaryl were formate dehydrogenase, aldehyde-alcohol dehydrogenase and ethanolamine utilization protein involved in one carbon metabolism. Acetate kinase and phasin were 2 of the 19 proteins that were not detected in carbaryl-supported C3 cells, but detected in glucose-supported C3 cells. Down-production of phasin and polyhydroxyalkanoates in carbaryl-supported C3 cells suggests insufficient carbon sources and lower levels of primary metabolites to maintain an ordinary level of metabolism. Differential metabolomes (~196 identified polar metabolites) showed up-production of metabolites in pentose phosphate pathways and metabolisms of cysteine, cystine and some other amino acids, disaccharides and nicotinate, in contract to down-production of most of the other amino acids and hexoses. The proteomic and metabolomic analyses showed that carbaryl-supported C3 cells experienced strong toxic effects, oxidative stresses, DNA/RNA damages and carbon nutrient deficiency.

Description: Species of the genus Variovorax are often isolated from nitrile or amide-containing organic compound-contaminated soil. However, there have been few biological characterizations of Variovorax and their contaminant-degrading enzymes. Previously, we reported a new soil isolate, Variovorax boronicumulans CGMCC 4969, and its nitrile hydratase that transforms the neonicotinoid insecticide thiacloprid into an amide metabolite. In this study, we showed that CGMCC 4969 is able to degrade acrylamide, a neurotoxicant and carcinogen in animals, during cell growth in a mineral salt medium as well as in its resting state. Resting cells rapidly hydrolyzed 600 mg/L acrylamide to acrylic acid with a half-life of 2.5 min. In in vitro tests, CGMCC 4969 showed plant growth-promoting properties; it produced a siderophore, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, and the phytohormone salicylic acid. Interestingly, in soil inoculated with this strain, 200 mg/L acrylamide was completely degraded in 4 days. Gene cloning and overexpression in the Escherichia coli strain Rosetta (DE3) pLysS resulted in the production of an aliphatic amidase of 345 amino acids that hydrolyzed acrylamide into acrylic acid. The amidase contained a conserved catalytic triad, Glu59, Lys 134, and Cys166, and an “MRHGDISSS” amino acid sequence at the N-terminal region. Variovorax boronicumulans CGMCC 4969, which is able to use acrylamide for cell growth and rapidly degrade acrylamide in soil, shows promising plant growth-promoting properties. As such, it has the potential to be developed into an effective Bioaugmentation strategy to promote growth of field crops in acrylamide-contaminated soil.

Description: Organic and metallic pollutants are ubiquitous in the environment. Many metals are reported to be toxic to microorganisms and to inhibit biodegradation. The effect of the metals iron, copper and silver on the metabolism of Labrys portucalensis F11 and on fluorobenzene (FB) biodegradation was examined. The results indicate that the addition of 1 mM of Fe 2+ to the culture medium has a positive effect on bacterial growth and has no impact in the biodegradation of 1 and 2 mM of FB. The presence of 1 mM of Cu 2+ was found to strongly inhibit the growth of F11 cultures and to reduce the biodegradation of 1 and 2 mM of FB to ca. 50 %, with 80 % of stoichiometrically expected fluoride released. In the experiments with resting cells, the FB degraded (from 2 mM supplied) was reduced ca. 20 % whereas the fluoride released was reduced to 45 % of that stoichiometrically expected. Ag + was the most potent inhibitor of FB degradation. In experiments with growing cells, the addition of 1 mM of Ag + to the culture medium containing 1 and 2 mM of FB resulted in no fluoride release, whereas FB degradation was only one third of that observed in control cultures. In the experiments with resting cells, the addition of Ag + resulted in 25 % reduction in substrate degradation and fluoride release was only 20 % of that stoichiometrically expected. The accumulation of catechol and 4-fluorocatechol in cultures supplemented with Cu 2+ or Ag + suggest inhibition of the key enzyme of FB metabolism—catechol 1,2-dioxygenase.

Description: In the present study, the influence of kaolinite and goethite on microbial degradation of methyl parathion was investigated. We observed that the biodegradation process was improved by kaolinite and depressed by goethite. Calorimetric data further showed that the metabolic activities of degrading cells ( Pseudomonas putida ) were enhanced by the presence of kaolinite and depressed by the presence of goethite. A semipermeable membrane experiment was performed and results supported the above observations: the promotive effect of kaolinite and the inhibition of goethite for microbial degradation was not found when the bacteria was enclosed by semipermeable membrane and had no direct contact with these minerals, suggesting the important function of the contact of cellular surfaces with mineral particles. The relative larger particles of kaolinite were loosely attached to the bacteria. This attachment made the cells easy to use the sorbed substrate and then stimulated biodegradation. For goethite, small particles were tightly bound to bacterial cells and limited the acquisition of substrate and nutrients, thereby inhibiting biodegradation. These results indicated that interfacial interaction between bacterial cells and minerals significantly affected the biodegradation of pesticides.

Description: Although 4- tert -butylphenol (4- t -BP) is a serious aquatic pollutant, its biodegradation in aquatic environments has not been well documented. In this study, 4- t -BP was obviously and repeatedly removed from water from four different environments in the presence of Spirodela polyrrhiza , giant duckweed, but 4- t -BP persisted in the environmental waters in the absence of S. polyrrhiza . Also, 4- t -BP was not removed from autoclaved pond water with sterilized S. polyrrhiza . These results suggest that the 4- t -BP removal from the environmental waters was caused by biodegradation stimulated by the presence of S. polyrrhiza rather than by uptake by the plant. Moreover, Sphingobium fuliginis OMI capable of utilizing 4- t -BP as a sole carbon and energy source was isolated from the S. polyrrhiza rhizosphere. Strain OMI degraded 4- t -BP via a meta -cleavage pathway, and also degraded a broad range of alkylphenols with linear or branched alkyl side chains containing two to nine carbon atoms. Root exudates of S. polyrrhiza stimulated 4- t -BP degradation and cell growth of strain OMI. Thus, the stimulating effects of S. polyrrhiza root exudates on 4- t -BP-degrading bacteria might have contributed to 4- t -BP removal in the environmental waters with S. polyrrhiza . These results demonstrate that the S. polyrrhiza –bacteria association may be applicable to the removal of highly persistent 4- t -BP from wastewaters or polluted aquatic environments.

Description: The biodegradation of heptadecane in five sand columns was modeled using a multiplicative Monod approach. Each column contained 1.0 kg of sand and 2 g of heptadecane, and was supplied with an artificial seawater solution containing nutrients at a flow rate that resulted in unsaturated flow through the column. All nutrients were provided in excess with the exception of nitrate whose influent concentration was 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, or 5.0 mg N/L. The experiment was run around 912 h until no measurable oxygen consumption or CO 2 production was observed. The residual mass of heptadecane was measured at the end of the experiments and the biodegradation was monitored based on oxygen consumption and CO 2 production. Biodegradation kinetic parameters were estimated by fitting the model to experimental data of oxygen, CO 2 , and residual mass of heptadecane obtained from the two columns having influent nitrate–N concentration of 0.5 and 2.5 mg/L. Noting that the oxygen and CO 2 measurements leveled off at around 450 h, we fitted the model to these data for that range. The estimated parameters fell in within the range reported in the literature. In particular, the half-saturation constant for nitrate utilization,  $ K_{\text{N}} $ , was estimated to be 0.45 mg N/L, and the yield coefficient was found to be 0.15 mg biomass/mg heptadecane. Using these values, the rest of experimental data from the five columns was predicted, and the model agreed with the observations. There were some consistent discrepancies at large times between the model simulation and observed data in the cases with higher nitrate concentration. One plausible explanation for these differences could be limitation of biodegradation by reduction of the heptadecane–water interfacial area in these columns while the model uses a constant interfacial area.

Description: Purpose Adipose tissue-associated chronic inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases. Dietary fatty acids are known to influence inflammatory processes. The aim of this study was to investigate, whether diets with regular fat contents but variable fat qualities affect adipose tissue-associated inflammation through the fatty acid composition of mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT). Methods Obese Zucker rats were fed diets containing 7 % wt:wt rapeseed oil, corn oil, or lard for 10 weeks. Fatty acid composition and endocrine function regarding adipokines and cytokines of MAT, number of total CD3 + T cells, and cytokine secretion of mesenteric lymph node (MLN)-derived lymphocytes were determined. Local effects in MAT and MLN were compared to systemic effects assessed in serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results Fatty acid composition of MAT reflected dietary fatty acid intake, without affecting endocrine function. Feeding the lard diet for 10 weeks increased the serum adiponectin and TNF-α secretion of blood lymphocytes, whereas CD3 + T cells in blood were decreased. No effects were seen for the secretion of adipokines and cytokines from MAT, the amount of T cells in MLN, and cytokine secretion of MLN lymphocytes. Conclusions In conclusion, feeding obese rats a diet with regular fat content but variable fat sources for 10 weeks, changed the fatty acid composition of MAT but not its secretory properties or MLN functions. Although the local immune system was not influenced, lard-feeding induced minor changes in systemic immune function.

Description: Purpose Dietary food composition influences postprandial glucose homeostasis. Thus, the objective was to investigate the effects of an acute intake of three different types of strawberry jam, differing in carbohydrate and antioxidants content, on postprandial glucose metabolism, lipid profile, antioxidant status, and satiety. Methods Sixteen healthy adults participated in a randomized, crossover, double-blind study with three arms, receiving 60 g of three different strawberry jams. Blood samples were collected at fasting and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after its intake. Blood analyses were performed with validated procedures and satiety was estimated with visual analogue scale (VAS). Results Blood glucose concentrations were maintained at normal values and without peaks within the 2 h after consumption of low-sugar jams. However, blood glucose and insulin were significantly higher at 30 and 60 min after high-sugar (HS) jam intake versus both low-sugar jams. Furthermore, HS jam produced more satisfaction at short time, but decreased as soon as blood glucose concentration began to decrease. Moreover, HS ingestion produced lower free fatty acid levels ( p  〈 0.05) throughout the trial with respect both the low-sugar jams. However, no additional benefits on oxidative status (malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and uric acid), glucose, lipid, and satiety variables were observed due to the inclusion of an antioxidant to low-sugar jam. Conclusions This study reinforces the idea that products without added sugars are appropriate for the management of glycemic alterations and provides further insight into the effect of natural antioxidants as a functional ingredient on oxidative status and related metabolic disturbances. Registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01684332.

Description: Purpose Soy isoflavones may inhibit tumor cell invasion and metastasis via their effects on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs). The current study investigates the effects of daidzein, R- and S-equol on the invasion of MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells and the effects of these compounds on MMP/TIMP expression at the mRNA level. Methods The anti-invasive effects of daidzein, R- and S-equol (0, 2.5, 10, 50 μM) on MDA-MB-231 cells were determined using the Matrigel invasion assay following 48-h exposure. Effects on MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 expression were assessed using real-time PCR. Chiral HPLC analysis was used to determine intracellular concentrations of R- and S-equol. Results The invasive capacity of MDA-MB-231 cells was significantly reduced (by approximately 50–60 %) following treatment with 50 μM daidzein, R- or S-equol. Anti-invasive effects were also observed with R-equol at 2.5 and 10 μM though overall equipotent effects were induced by all compounds. Inhibition of invasion induced by all three compounds at 50 μM was associated with the down-regulation of MMP-2, while none of the compounds tested significantly affected the expression levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 or TIMP-2 at this concentration. Following exposure to media containing 50 μM R- or S-equol for 48-h intracellular concentrations of R- and S-equol were 4.38 ± 1.17 and 3.22 ± 0.47 nM, respectively. Conclusion Daidzein, R- and S-equol inhibit the invasion of MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells in part via the down-regulation of MMP-2 expression, with equipotent effects observed for the parent isoflavone daidzein and the equol enantiomers.

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.

Description: Purpose Consumption of phytosterols is a nutritional strategy to reduce cholesterol absorption, but the efficacy of various phytosterol intake modalities remains uncertain. The main objective was to investigate the effects of phytosterol esters (PE) provided either as a spread (dispersed in fat) during a mixed meal or as a minidrink (micro-dispersed in liquid form) after a meal. Methods In a randomized, single-blinded crossover design, 12 healthy intubated volunteers tested three different liquid meal sequences with and without PE. The liquid meal (500 mL, Fortisip) contained an oral dose (80 mg) of deuterium-enriched cholesterol (D7C). The intubation was stopped at 240 min, and the fate of sterols was determined in the different phases of duodenal content samples as function of time. A second solid fat-containing meal without sterols was consumed at 270 min. D7C was quantified in chylomicrons and plasma for 8 h. The conditions tested were as follows: (1) no PE added (control), (2) PE in a spread added into a liquid meal (PE-spread meal) and (3) PE given 30 min after a liquid meal as 100-g yoghurt drink (PE-minidrink meal). Results Addition of PE decreased the incorporation of cholesterol into the duodenum aqueous phase including micelles. PE added as a spread or as a minidrink significantly and comparably lowered meal cholesterol occurrence in chylomicrons (−40 % for PE-spread and −54 % for PE-minidrink, p  〈 0.0001) compared with the control meal. Conclusions PE either dispersed in fat during a meal or micro-dispersed in a liquid form after a meal resulted in a markedly reduced occurrence of meal-derived cholesterol in the circulation at a comparable extent.

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.

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.

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.

Description: Purpose Despite the detailed knowledge of the absorption and incorporation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) into plasma lipids and red blood cells (RBC) in humans, very little is known about docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5 n-3). The aim of this study was to investigate the uptake and incorporation of pure DPA and EPA into human plasma and RBC lipids. Methods Ten female participants received 8 g of pure DPA or pure EPA in randomized crossover double-blinded manner over a 7-day period. The placebo treatment was olive oil. Blood samples were collected at days zero, four and seven, following which the plasma and RBC were separated and used for the analysis of fatty acids. Results Supplementation with DPA significantly increased the proportions of DPA in the plasma phospholipids (PL) (by twofold) and triacylglycerol (TAG) fractions (by 2.3-fold, day 4). DPA supplementation also significantly increased the proportions of EPA in TAG (by 3.1-fold, day 4) and cholesterol ester (CE) fractions (by 2.0-fold, day 7) and of DHA in TAG fraction (by 3.1-fold, day 4). DPA proportions in RBC PL did not change following supplementation. Supplementation with EPA significantly increased the proportion of EPA in the plasma CE and PL fractions, (both by 2.7-fold, day 4 and day 7) and in the RBC PL (by 1.9-fold, day 4 and day 7). EPA supplementation did not alter the proportions of DPA or DHA in any lipid fraction. These results showed that within day 4 of supplementation, DPA and EPA demonstrated different and specific incorporation patterns. Conclusion The results of this short-term study suggest that DPA may act as a reservoir of the major long-chain n-3 fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) in humans.

Description: Purpose Glutamine (Gln) is a nutrient with immunomodulatory effects in metabolic stressed conditions. This study investigated the effects of Gln on colonic-inflammatory-mediator expression and mucosal repair in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Methods C57BL/6 mice received distilled water containing 3 % DSS for 5 d to induce colitis. One of the DSS-treated groups was intraperitoneally injected with an alanyl (Ala)-Gln solution 3 days before (G-DSS) while the other group was administered Ala-Gln 3 days after colitis (DSS-G) was induced. The Ala-Gln solution provided 0.5 g Gln/kg/d. The saline-DSS group (S-DSS) received an identical amount of saline before and after colitis was induced to serve as a positive control. Results The S-DSS group had a shorter colon length, higher plasma haptoglobin level, and more-severe colon inflammation. Also, the toll-like receptor (TLR)4 level, nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation, and inflammatory cytokine gene expression in the colon were higher than those of the normal control group. Gln administration either before or after colitis suppressed TLR4 protein levels, decreased plasma haptoglobin, and reduced colon inflammation. Histological inflammatory scores were also lowered. Compared to the post-colitis Gln group, preventive use of Gln had higher colon length, expressions of mucin 2, trefoil factor 3, and heat shock protein 72 genes were also upregulated in the colon. Conclusions These results suggest that Gln administered either before or after the colitis mitigated inflammation of colitis that was not observed in group without Gln injection. Prophylactic treatment with Gln had more-beneficial effects on reducing inflammatory markers and enhancing the recovery of mucosa in DSS-induced colitis.

Description: Background/Objectives Folate has been strongly implicated in the aetiology of colorectal cancer. However, the relationship between dietary folate intake, rectal mucosal folate status and colorectal cancer risk is uncertain. The study aimed to estimate nutrient intakes and measure systemic folate status and rectal mucosal folate concentration in people at differential risk of developing colorectal cancer. Methods Two hundred and twenty-eight individuals were recruited from gastroenterology clinics and subdivided into three patient groups: untreated colorectal cancer ( n  = 43), adenomatous polyps ( n  = 90) or normal bowel ( n  = 95). Biopsies from macroscopically normal rectal mucosa and blood were collected and used for the measurement of rectal mucosal 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MeTHF) and systemic markers of folate status, respectively. Nutrient intake was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Results Dietary intake variables, plasma 5-MeTHF and red cell folate and plasma homocysteine concentrations were similar in all three subject groups and 95 % CI fell within normal range for each variable. Rectal mucosal 5-MeTHF concentration was higher in the normal mucosa of adenomatous polyp patients than in normal subjects ( P  = 0.055). Rectal mucosal 5-MeTHF was associated significantly with plasma folate ( P  〈 0.001, r  = 0.294), red cell folate ( P  = 0.014, r  = 0.305), plasma homocysteine ( P  = 0.017, r  = −0.163) and dietary folate intake ( P  = 0.036, r  = 0.152). Conclusions This study demonstrates adequate folate status of patients attending gastroenterology clinics for the investigation of bowel symptoms, with no significant difference in dietary intakes or systemic folate status indices according to diagnosis. Rectal mucosal 5-MeTHF concentrations were elevated in adenomatous polyp patients, but failed to reach significance. Further studies are required to determine the biological significance of this observation.

Description: Purpose Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria might be an inflammation trigger in adipose tissue. It has recently been proposed that there is a link between adipose tissue distribution and blood LPS. However, the number of studies on this topic is scarce, and further investigation in humans is required. In this study, we explored the association between plasma LPS concentrations and body fat distribution, as well as the biochemical parameters that may indicate the presence of metabolic disorders. Methods Sixty-seven young adult men with body mass index of 26–35 kg/m 2 were evaluated. Anthropometry, body composition and body fat distribution, blood pressure, energy expenditure, physical activity level, dietary intake, and biochemical parameters were assessed. Results Men with median plasma LPS ≥ 0.9 EU/mL presented higher sagittal abdominal diameter, trunk fat percentage, and android fat percentage, and mass, insulin and alanine aminotransferase concentrations, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and beta cell dysfunction (HOMA-B) than those with lower plasma LPS. LPS correlated positively with the trunk fat percentage, and android fat percentage, and mass, insulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations, as well as HOMA-IR and HOMA-B. Conclusion Our results suggest that a higher plasma LPS concentration is associated with a less favorable phenotype as characterized by higher central adiposity, higher values of HOMA-IR, and beta cell function impairment in overweight/obese men.

Description: Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the musculoskeletal effects induced by ovariectomy-related fat mass deposition against the musculoskeletal effects caused by a high-fat diet. Methods A group of adult female rats was ovariectomized and fed a control diet. Two additional groups were sham-operated and fed a control or a high-fat diet for 19 weeks. Distal femur and serum bone parameters were measured to assess bone metabolism. Muscle protein metabolism, mitochondrial markers and triglyceride content were evaluated in tibialis anterior . Triglyceride content was evaluated in liver. Circulating inflammatory and metabolic markers were determined. Results The high-fat diet and ovariectomy led to similar increases in fat mass (+36.6–56.7 %; p  〈 0.05) but had different impacts on bone and muscle tissues and inflammatory markers. Consumption of the high-fat diet led to decreased bone formation (−38.4 %; p  〈 0.05), impaired muscle mitochondrial metabolism, muscle lipotoxicity and a 20.9 % increase in tibialis anterior protein synthesis rate ( p  〈 0.05). Ovariectomy was associated with higher bone turnover as bone formation increased +72.7 % ( p  〈 0.05) and bone resorption increased +76.4 % ( p  〈 0.05), leading to bone loss, a 17.9 % decrease in muscle protein synthesis rate ( p  〈 0.05) and liver lipotoxicity. Conclusions In female rats, high-fat diet and ovariectomy triggered similar gains in fat mass but had different impacts on bone and muscle metabolism. The ovariectomy-induced mechanisms affecting the musculoskeletal system are mainly caused by estrogen depletion, which surpasses the potential-independent effect of adiposity.

Description: In his offered opinion piece, (Dietary glycaemic load and cognitive performance in elderly subjects) Dr. Kawada comments upon the statistical analysis and suggests that the conclusions of the study should be interpreted with caution. Having closely examined these comments, we believe that they are over-stated and we draw different conclusions. At first viewing, the statistical arguments put forward by Dr. Kawada look complicated, but one may summarize that he believes the analysis lacked statistical power. This argument is directed towards two sets of regression analyses, a Poisson analysis on which one of the messages of the paper hinges, and a second logistic analysis that was acknowledged as statistically underpowered in our publication. No statistical argument is provided as to why the Poisson regression model is underpowered; the critique contains no new scientific content but relies on a technical re-iteration of the limitations of the study (that were highlighted in the original manuscript) combined with quasi philosophical arguments on data set size and the need for biochemical markers in observational dietary studies.

Description: Purpose Selenium is an essential trace mineral and a component of selenoproteins that are involved in the production of thyroid hormones and in regulating the immune response. We aimed to explore the effect of low-dose selenium supplementation on thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) concentration and thyroid function in pregnant women from a mild-to-moderate iodine-deficient population. Methods Samples and data were from a secondary analysis of Selenium in PRegnancy INTervention (SPRINT), a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that recruited 230 women with singleton pregnancies from a UK antenatal clinic at 12 weeks of gestation. Women were randomized to receive 60 µg/day selenium or placebo until delivery. Serum thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab), thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) were measured at 12, 20 and 35 weeks and thyroglobulin antibodies (Tg-Ab) at 12 weeks. Results 93.5 % of participants completed the study. Se supplementation had no more effect than placebo in decreasing TPO-Ab concentration or the prevalence of TPO-Ab positivity during the course of pregnancy. In women who were either TPO-Ab or Tg-Ab negative at baseline (Thy-Ab −ve ), TSH increased and FT4 decreased significantly throughout gestation ( P  〈 0.001), with no difference between treatment groups. In women who were Thy-Ab +ve at baseline, TSH tended to decrease and was lower than placebo at 35 weeks ( P  = 0.050). FT4 fell more on Se than placebo supplementation and was significantly lower at 35 weeks ( P  = 0.029). Conclusions Low-dose selenium supplementation in pregnant women with mild-to-moderate deficiency had no effect on TPO-Ab concentration, but tended to change thyroid function in Thy-Ab +ve women.

Description: Purpose Currently, obesity has become a worldwide health problem. Adipocyte differentiation is closely associated with the onset of obesity. Our previous studies suggested that persimmon tannin might be a potent anti-adipogenic dietary bioactive compound. However, the mechanism of persimmon tannin on adipocyte differentiation is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of persimmon tannin on adipogenic differentiation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and the underlying mechanisms. Methods Adipogenic differentiation was induced by cocktail in the presence or absence of persimmon tannin. Intracellular lipid accumulation was determined by Oil red O staining and enzymatic colorimetric methods. Gene expression and protein levels were measured by real time RT-PCR and Western blot. Results Persimmon tannin inhibited intracellular lipid accumulation markedly, and the inhibitory effect was largely limited to the early stage of adipocyte differentiation. Persimmon tannin suppressed the expression of C/EBPα and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), significantly. Furthermore, genes related to lipogenesis, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1, were down-regulated by persimmon tannin. In addition, adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (aP2), which is a target gene of PPARγ, was suppressed by persimmon tannin notably. Correspondingly, the expression of miR-27a and miR-27b were up-regulated by persimmon tannin from Day 2 to Day 8 significantly. Conclusion Persimmon tannin inhibited adipocyte differentiation through regulation of PPARγ, C/EBPα and miR-27 in early stage of adipogenesis.

Description:    White-rot fungi are a group of microorganisms capable of degrading xenobiotic compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or synthetic dyes, by means of the action of extracellular oxidative enzymes secreted during secondary metabolism. In this study, the transformation of three anti-inflammatory drugs: diclofenac, ibuprofen and naproxen were carried out by pellets of Phanerochaete chrysosporium in fed-batch bioreactors operating under continuous air supply or periodic pulsation of oxygen. The performance of the fungal reactors was steady over a 30-day treatment and the effect of oxygen pulses on the pellet morphology was evidenced. Complete elimination of diclofenac was achieved in the aerated and the oxygenated reactors, even with a fast oxidation rate in the presence of oxygen (77% after 2 h), reaching a total removal after 23 h. In the case of ibuprofen, this compound was completely oxidized under air and oxygen supply. Finally, naproxen was oxidized in the range of 77 up to 99% under both aeration conditions. These findings demonstrate that the oxidative capability of this microorganism for the anti-inflammatory drugs is not restricted to an oxygen environment, as generally accepted, since the fungal reactor was able to remove these compounds under aerated and oxygenated conditions. This result is very interesting in terms of developing viable reactors for the oxidation of target compounds as the cost of aeration can be significantly reduced. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9494-9 Authors A. I. Rodarte-Morales, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain G. Feijoo, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain M. T. Moreira, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain J. M. Lema, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    In this work, two novel iron oxidizing bacteria (IOB), namely Gordonia sp. MZ-89 and Enterobacter sp . M01101, were isolated from sewage treatment plants and identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Then, microbially influenced corrosion (MIC) of carbon steel in the presence of these bacteria was investigated. The electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to measure the corrosion rate and observe the corrosion mechanism. The results showed that the existence of these microorganisms decreased the corrosion potential and enhanced the corrosion rate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed the ground boundary attacks and pitting on carbon steel samples in the presence of these bacteria after polarization. Corrosion scales were identified with X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was demonstrated that these bacteria can greatly affect the crystalline phase of corrosion products that also confirmed by SEM results. It was inferred that these bacteria were responsible for the corrosion of carbon steel, especially in the form of localized corrosion. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9487-8 Authors H. Ashassi-Sorkhabi, Electrochemistry Research Laboratory, Physical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran M. Moradi-Haghighi, Electrochemistry Research Laboratory, Physical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran G. Zarrini, Microbiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Science Faculty, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran R. Javaherdashti, Department of Civil Engineering, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, WA, Australia Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    The common grass Calamagrostis epigeions produces a large amount of dead biomass, which remain above the soil surface for many months. In this study, we determined how exposure of dead biomass above the soil affects its subsequent decomposition in soil. Collected dead standing biomass was divided in two parts, the first one (initial litter) was stored in a dark, dry place. The other part was placed in litterbags in the field. The litterbags were located in soil, on the soil surface, or hanging in the air without contact with soil but exposed to the sun and rain. After 1 year of field exposure, litter mass loss and C and N content were measured, and changes in litter chemistry were explored using NMR and thermochemolysis-GC–MS. The potential decomposability of the litter was quantified by burying the litter from the litterbags and the initial litter in soil microcosms and measuring soil respiration. Soil respiration was greater with litter that had been hanging in air than with all other kinds of litter. These finding could not be explained by changes in litter mass or C:N ratio. NMR indicated a decrease in polysaccharides relative to lignin in litter that was buried in soil but not in litter that was placed on soil surface or that was hanging in the air. Thermochemolysis indicated that the syringyl units of the litter lignin were decomposed when the litter was exposed to light. We postulate that photochemical decay of lignin increase decomposability of dead standing biomass. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9479-8 Authors Jan Frouz, Faculty of Science, Institute for Environmental Studies, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12800 Praha, Czech Republic Tomáš Cajthaml, Faculty of Science, Institute for Environmental Studies, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12800 Praha, Czech Republic Ondřej Mudrák, Institute of soil biology, Biology Center, AS CR, Na Sádkách 7, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Arsenic is a carcinogenic compound widely distributed in the groundwater around the world. The fate of arsenic in groundwater depends on the activity of microorganisms either by oxidizing arsenite (As III ), or by reducing arsenate (As V ). Because of the higher toxicity and mobility of As III compared to As V , microbial-catalyzed oxidation of As III to As V can lower the environmental impact of arsenic. Although aerobic As III -oxidizing bacteria are well known, anoxic oxidation of As III with nitrate as electron acceptor has also been shown to occur. In this study, three As III -oxidizing bacterial strains, Azoarcus sp. strain EC1-pb1, Azoarcus sp. strain EC3-pb1 and Diaphorobacter sp. strain MC-pb1, have been characterized. Each strain was tested for its ability to oxidize As III with four different electron acceptors, nitrate, nitrite, chlorate and oxygen. Complete As III oxidation was achieved with both nitrate and oxygen, demonstrating the novel ability of these bacterial strains to oxidize As III in either anoxic or aerobic conditions. Nitrate was only reduced to nitrite. Different electron donors were used to study their suitability in supporting nitrate reduction. Hydrogen and acetate were readily utilized by all the cultures. The flexibility of these As III -oxidizing bacteria to use oxygen and nitrate to oxidize As III as well as organic and inorganic substrates as alternative electron donors explains their presence in non-arsenic-contaminated environments. The findings suggest that at least some As III -oxidizing bacteria are flexible with respect to electron-acceptors and electron-donors and that they are potentially widespread in low arsenic concentration environments. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9493-x Authors Lucía Rodríguez-Freire, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ, USA Wenjie Sun, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ, USA Reyes Sierra-Alvarez, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ, USA Jim A. Field, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ, USA Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    To reduce the volume of seaweed wastes and extract polysaccharides, seaweed-degrading bacteria were isolated from drifting macroalgae harvested along the coast of Toyama Bay, Japan. Sixty-four bacterial isolates were capable of degrading “Wakame” ( Undaria pinnatifida ) thallus fragments into single cell detritus (SCD) particles. Amongst these, strain 6532A was the most active degrader of thallus fragments, and was capable of degrading thallus fragments to SCD particles within a day. Although the sequence similarity of the 16S rRNA gene of strain 6532A was 100% similar to that of Microbulbifer elongatus JAMB-A7, several distinct differences were observed between strains, including motility, morphology, and utilization of d -arabinose and gelatin. Consequently, strain 6532A was classified as a new Microbulbifer strain, and was designated Microbulbifer sp. 6532A. Strain 6532A was capable of degrading both alginate and cellulose in the culture medium, zymogram analysis of which revealed the presence of multiple alginate lyases and cellulases. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to directly demonstrate the existence of these enzymes in Microbulbifer species. Shotgun cloning and sequencing of the alginate lyase gene in 6532A revealed a 1,074-bp open reading frame, which was designated algMsp . The reading frame encoded a PL family seven enzyme composed of 358 amino acids (38,181 Da). With a similarity of 74.2%, the deduced amino acid sequence was most similar to a Saccharophagus enzyme ( alg 7C ). These findings suggest that algMsp in strain 6532A is a novel alginate lyase gene. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9489-6 Authors Masayuki Wakabayashi, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama, 930-8555 Japan Akihiro Sakatoku, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama, 930-8555 Japan Fumio Noda, Sugiyo Co. Ltd, Nanao, Ishikawa 926-8603, Japan Minoru Noda, Sugiyo Co. Ltd, Nanao, Ishikawa 926-8603, Japan Daisuke Tanaka, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama, 930-8555 Japan Shogo Nakamura, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama, 930-8555 Japan Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    The performance of an Arthrobacter viscosus culture to remove diethylketone from aqueous solutions was evaluated. The effect of initial concentration of diethylketone on the growth of the bacteria was evaluated for the range of concentration between 0 and 4.8 g/l, aiming to evaluate a possible toxicological effect. The maximum specific growth rate achieved is 0.221 h −1 at 1.6 g/l of initial diethylketone concentration, suggesting that for higher concentrations an inhibitory effect on the growth occurs. The removal percentages obtained were approximately 88%, for all the initial concentrations tested. The kinetic parameters were estimated using four growth kinetic models for biodegradation of organic compounds available in the literature. The experimental data found is well fitted by the Haldane model ( R 2  = 1) as compared to Monod model ( R 2  = 0.99), Powell ( R 2  = 0.82) and Loung model ( R 2  = 0.95). The biodegradation of diethylketone using concentrated biomass was studied for an initial diethylketone concentration ranging from 0.8–3.9 g/l in a batch with recirculation mode of operation. The biodegradation rate found followed the pseudo-second order kinetics and the resulting kinetic parameters are reported. The removal percentages obtained were approximately 100%, for all the initial concentrations tested, suggesting that the increment on the biomass concentration allows better results in terms of removal of diethylketone. This study showed that these bacteria are very effective for the removal of diethylketone from aqueous solutions. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s10532-011-9488-7 Authors Filomena Costa, IBB-Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal Cristina Quintelas, IBB-Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal Teresa Tavares, IBB-Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description: Purpose Evidence suggests that dietary patterns compatible with the traditional Mediterranean diet (MD) may protect against cognitive decline. We prospectively assessed whether adherence to MD in the Mediterranean country of Greece is inversely associated with cognitive decline in the elderly and whether any particular MD component may play a key role. Methods Elderly men and women ( N  = 401) residing in the greater Athens area had dietary variables ascertained in 1994–1999. Adherence to MD was represented by the MD score [MDS, 0–3 (low), 4–5 (intermediate), 6–9 (high)]. The mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was administered by trained professionals to individuals aged 65 years or older in 2004–2006 (first assessment) and re-administered in 2011–2012 (second assessment). MMSE change (cMMSE) was categorized as: improved/unchanged (cMMSE ≥ 0), mildly lower (cMMSE −1 to −4) or substantially lower (cMMSE ≤ −5). Associations were evaluated through multinomial logistic regression. Results Decline in MMSE performance was inversely associated with adherence to MD. For mild versus no decline, odds ratio (OR) comparing high to low MD adherence was 0.46 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.25–0.87, p  = 0.012]. For substantial versus no decline, OR comparing high to low MD adherence was 0.34 (95 % CI 0.13–0.89, p  = 0.025). Among the nine MDS components, only vegetable consumption exhibited a significant inverse association with cognitive decline. Conclusions Closer adherence to the traditional MD is highly likely to protect against cognitive decline in this elderly Mediterranean population. Higher vegetable consumption appears to play a key role, possibly in synergy with additional components of the diet.

Description:    Trichloroethylene (TCE) is extensively used in commercial applications, despite its risk to human health via soil and groundwater contamination. The stability of TCE, which is a useful characteristic for commercial application, makes it difficult to remove it from the environment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that TCE can be effectively removed from the environment using bioremediation. Pseudomonas putida F1 is capable of degrading TCE into less hazardous byproducts via the toluene dioxygenase pathway (TOD). Unfortunately, these bioremediation systems are not self-sustaining, as the degradation capacity declines over time. Fortunately, the replacement of metabolic co-factors is sufficient in many cases to maintain effective TCE degradation. Thus, monitoring systems must be developed to predict when TCE degradation rates are likely to decline. Herein, we show evidence that tod expression levels correlate with the ability of P. putida F1 to metabolize TCE in the presence of toluene. Furthermore, the presence of toluene improves the replication of P . putida F1, even when TCE is present at high concentration. These findings may be applied to real world applications to decide when the bioremediation system requires supplementation with aromatic substrates, in order to maintain maximum TCE removal capacity. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9544-y Authors Jianbo Liu, College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 53 Zhengzhou Road, Sifang District, Qingdao, 266061 China Takashi Amemiya, Graduate School of Environment and Information Science, Yokohama National University, 79-7 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, 240-8501 Japan Qing Chang, Graduate School of Environment and Information Science, Yokohama National University, 79-7 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, 240-8501 Japan Yi Qian, College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 53 Zhengzhou Road, Sifang District, Qingdao, 266061 China Kiminori Itoh, Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, 79-7 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, 240-8501 Japan Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Molasses melanoidin (MM) is a major pollutant in biomethanated distillery spent wash (BMDS) due to its recalcitrant properties. The 75% colour and 71% COD of MM (1,000 ppm) were reduced with developed bacterial consortium comprising Proteus mirabilis (IITRM5; FJ581028), Bacillus sp. (IITRM7; FJ581030), Raoultella planticola (IITRM15; GU329705) and Enterobacter sakazakii (IITRM16, FJ581031) in the ratio of 4:3:2:1 within 10 days at optimized nutrient. Bacterial consortium showed manganese peroxidase and laccase activity during MM decolourisation. The dominant growth of R . planticola and E . sakazakii was noted in consortium during MM decolourisation. The comparative GC–MS analysis of extracted compounds of control and degraded samples showed that most of the compounds present in control were completely utilized by bacterial consortium along with production of some metabolites. The developed bacterial consortium could be a tool for the decolourisation and degradation of melanoidin containing BMDS. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9537-x Authors Sangeeta Yadav, Department of Environmental Microbiology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226025 Uttar Pradesh, India Ram Chandra, Department of Environmental Microbiology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226025 Uttar Pradesh, India Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    The capacity of an anaerobic sediment to achieve the simultaneous biodegradation of phenol and carbon tetrachloride (CT) was evaluated, using humic acids (HA) as redox mediator. The presence of HA in sediment incubations increased the rate of biodegradation of phenol and the rate of dehalogenation (2.5-fold) of CT compared to controls lacking HA. Further experiments revealed that the electron-accepting capacity of HA derived from different organic-rich environments was not associated with their reducing capacity to achieve CT dechlorination. The collected kinetic data suggest that the reduction of CT by reduced HA was the rate-limiting step during the simultaneous biodegradation of phenol and CT. To our knowledge, the present study constitutes the first demonstration of the simultaneous biodegradation of two priority pollutants mediated by HA. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9539-8 Authors Claudia M. Martínez, División de Ciencias Ambientales, Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICyT), Camino a la Presa San José 2055, Col. Lomas 4ª Sección, 78216 San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico Luis H. Alvarez, División de Ciencias Ambientales, Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICyT), Camino a la Presa San José 2055, Col. Lomas 4ª Sección, 78216 San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico Francisco J. Cervantes, División de Ciencias Ambientales, Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICyT), Camino a la Presa San José 2055, Col. Lomas 4ª Sección, 78216 San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Assessing in situ microbial abilities of soils to degrade pesticides is of great interest giving insight in soil filtering capability, which is a key ecosystem function limiting pollution of groundwater. Quantification of pesticide-degrading gene expression by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was tested as a suitable indicator to monitor pesticide biodegradation performances in soil. RNA extraction protocol was optimized to enhance the yield and quality of RNA recovered from soil samples to perform RT-qPCR assays. As a model, the activity of atrazine-degrading communities was monitored using RT-qPCRs to estimate the level of expression of atzD in five agricultural soils showing different atrazine mineralization abilities. Interestingly, the relative abundance of atzD mRNA copy numbers was positively correlated to the maximum rate and to the maximal amount of atrazine mineralized. Our findings indicate that the quantification of pesticide-degrading gene expression may be suitable to assess biodegradation performance in soil and monitor natural attenuation of pesticide. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9574-5 Authors Cécile Monard, UMR CNRS 6553 ‘EcoBio’—IFR2116/FR90 CAREN, Université de Rennes 1, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, Bat 14B, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France Fabrice Martin-Laurent, UMR 1347 Agroecologie, AgroSup/INRA/Université de Bourgogne, 17 rue Sully, BP 86510, 21065 Dijon Cedex, France Oscar Lima, UMR CNRS 6553 ‘EcoBio’—IFR2116/FR90 CAREN, Université de Rennes 1, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, Bat 14B, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France Marion Devers-Lamrani, UMR 1347 Agroecologie, AgroSup/INRA/Université de Bourgogne, 17 rue Sully, BP 86510, 21065 Dijon Cedex, France Françoise Binet, UMR CNRS 6553 ‘EcoBio’—IFR2116/FR90 CAREN, Université de Rennes 1, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, Bat 14B, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Plasmid-mediated bioaugmentation was demonstrated using sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) for enhancing 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) removal by introducing Cupriavidus necator JMP134 and Escherichia coli HB101 harboring 2,4-D-degrading plasmid pJP4. C. necator JMP134(pJP4) can mineralize and grow on 2,4-D, while E. coli HB101(pJP4) cannot assimilate 2,4-D because it lacks the chromosomal genes to degrade the intermediates. The SBR with C. necator JMP134(pJP4) showed 100 % removal against 200 mg/l of 2,4-D just after its introduction, after which 2,4-D removal dropped to 0 % on day 7 with the decline in viability of the introduced strain. The SBR with E. coli HB101(pJP4) showed low 2,4-D removal, i.e., below 10 %, until day 7. Transconjugant strains of Pseudomonas and Achromobacter isolated on day 7 could not grow on 2,4-D. Both SBRs started removing 2,4-D at 100 % after day 16 with the appearance of 2,4-D-degrading transconjugants belonging to Achromobacter , Burkholderia , Cupriavidus , and Pandoraea . After the influent 2,4-D concentration was increased to 500 mg/l on day 65, the SBR with E. coli HB101(pJP4) maintained stable 2,4-D removal of more than 95 %. Although the SBR with C. necator JMP134(pJP4) showed a temporal depression of 2,4-D removal of 65 % on day 76, almost 100 % removal was achieved thereafter. During this period, transconjugants isolated from both SBRs were mainly Achromobacter with high 2,4-D-degrading capability. In conclusion, plasmid-mediated bioaugmentation can enhance the degradation capability of activated sludge regardless of the survival of introduced strains and their 2,4-D degradation capacity. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9591-4 Authors Hirofumi Tsutsui, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Yasutaka Anami, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Masami Matsuda, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Kurumi Hashimoto, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Daisuke Inoue, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Kazunari Sei, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Satoshi Soda, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Michihiko Ike, Division of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

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:    The effectiveness of many bioremediation systems for PAH-contaminated soil may be constrained by low contaminant bioaccessibility due to limited aqueous solubility or large sorption capacity. Information on the extent to which PAHs can be readily biodegraded is of vital importance in the decision whether or not to remediate a contaminated soil. In the present study the rate-limiting factors in methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MCD)-enhanced bioremediation of PAH-contaminated soil were evaluated. MCD amendment at 10 % (w/w) combined with inoculation with the PAH-degrading bacterium Paracoccus sp. strain HPD-2 produced maximum removal of total PAHs of up to 35 %. The desorption of PAHs from contaminated soil was determined before and after 32 weeks of bioremediation. 10 % (w/w) MCD amendment (M2) increased the Tenax extraction of total PAHs from 12 to 30 % and promoted degradation by up to 26 % compared to 6 % in the control. However, the percentage of Tenax extraction for total PAHs was much larger than that of degradation. Thus, in the control and M2 treatment it is likely that during the initial phase the bioaccessibility of PAHs is high and biodegradation rates may be limited by microbial processes. On the other hand, when the soil was inoculated with the PAH-degrading bacterium (CKB and MB2), the slowly and very slowly desorbing fractions ( F sl and F vl ) became larger and the rate constants of slow and very slow desorption ( k sl and k vl ) became extremely small after bioremediation, suggesting that desorption is likely rate limiting during the second, slow phase of biotransformation. These results have practical implications for site risk assessment and cleanup strategies. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9593-2 Authors Mingming Sun, Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008 China Yongming Luo, Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008 China Ying Teng, Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008 China Peter Christie, Agri-Environment Branch, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Newforge Lane, Belfast, BT9 5PX UK Zhongjun Jia, Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008 China Zhengao Li, Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008 China Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    This review focuses on ligninolytic fungi, soil bacteria, plants and root exudates in the degradation and solubilisation of low grade and waste coal and the interaction between these mutualistic biocatalysts. Coal represents a considerable portion of the total global fossil fuel reserve and continued demand for, and supply of this resource generates vast quantities of spoil and low grade waste. Large scale bioremediation technologies for the beneficiation of waste coal have unfortunately not yet been realised despite the many discoveries of microorganisms capable of lignite, lignin, and humic acid breakdown. Even so, solubilisation and depolymerization of low grade coal appears to involve either ligninolytic enzyme action or the production of alkaline substances or both. While the precise mechanism of coal biosolubilisation is unclear, a model for the phyto-biodegradation of low rank coal by mutualistic interaction between ligninolytic microorganisms and higher plants is proposed. Based on accumulated evidence this model suggests that solubilisation and degradation of lignite and waste coals commences upon plant root exudate and ligninolytic microorganism interaction, which is mutualistic, and includes soil bacteria and both mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal fungi. It is envisaged that this model and its further elaboration will aid in the development of functional technologies for commercial bioremediation of coal mine spoils, contribute to soil formation, and the overall biogeochemistry of organic carbon in the global ecosystem. Content Type Journal Article Category Review Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9594-1 Authors Lerato M. Sekhohola, Institute for Environmental Biotechnology, Rhodes University, PO Box 94, Grahamstown, 6140 South Africa Eric E. Igbinigie, Institute for Environmental Biotechnology, Rhodes University, PO Box 94, Grahamstown, 6140 South Africa A. Keith Cowan, Institute for Environmental Biotechnology, Rhodes University, PO Box 94, Grahamstown, 6140 South Africa Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Field experiments were conducted to assess the potential for anaerobic biostimulation to enhance BTEX biodegradation under fermentative methanogenic conditions in groundwater impacted by a biodiesel blend (B20, consisting of 20 % v/v biodiesel and 80 % v/v diesel). B20 (100 L) was released at each of two plots through an area of 1 m 2 that was excavated down to the water table, 1.6 m below ground surface. One release was biostimulated with ammonium acetate, which was added weekly through injection wells near the source zone over 15 months. The other release was not biostimulated and served as a baseline control simulating natural attenuation. Ammonium acetate addition stimulated the development of strongly anaerobic conditions, as indicated by near-saturation methane concentrations. BTEX removal began within 8 months in the biostimulated source zone, but not in the natural attenuation control, where BTEX concentrations were still increasing (due to source dissolution) 2 years after the release. Phylogenetic analysis using quantitative PCR indicated an increase in concentration and relative abundance of Archaea (Crenarchaeota and Euryarchaeota), Geobacteraceae ( Geobacter and Pelobacter spp.) and sulfate-reducing bacteria ( Desulfovibrio , Desulfomicrobium , Desulfuromusa , and Desulfuromonas ) in the biostimulated plot relative to the control. Apparently, biostimulation fortuitously enhanced the growth of putative anaerobic BTEX degraders and associated commensal microorganisms that consume acetate and H 2 , and enhance the thermodynamic feasibility of BTEX fermentation. This is the first field study to suggest that anaerobic-methanogenic biostimulation could enhance source zone bioremediation of groundwater aquifers impacted by biodiesel blends. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9589-y Authors Débora Toledo Ramos, Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil Márcio Luis Busi da Silva, EMBRAPA, BR153 Km 110, P.O. Box 21, Concórdia, SC 89700-000, Brazil Helen Simone Chiaranda, Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil Pedro J. J. Alvarez, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA Henry Xavier Corseuil, Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Pseudoxanthomonas sp. RN402 was capable of degrading diesel, crude oil, n -tetradecane and n -hexadecane. The RN402 cells were immobilized on the surface of high-density polyethylene plastic pellets at a maximum cell density of 10 8 most probable number (MPN) g −1 of plastic pellets. The immobilized cells not only showed a higher efficacy of diesel oil removal than free cells but could also degrade higher concentrations of diesel oil. The rate of diesel oil removal by immobilized RN402 cells in liquid culture was 1,050 mg l −1  day −1 . Moreover, the immobilized cells could maintain high efficacy and viability throughout 70 cycles of bioremedial treatment of diesel-contaminated water. The stability of diesel oil degradation in the immobilized cells resulted from the ability of living RN402 cells to attach to material surfaces by biofilm formation, as was shown by CLSM imaging. These characteristics of the immobilized RN402 cells, including high degradative efficacy, stability and flotation, make them suitable for the purpose of continuous wastewater bioremediation. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9596-z Authors Wannarak Nopcharoenkul, Inter-Department of Environmental Science, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand Parichat Netsakulnee, Bioremediation Research Unit, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand Onruthai Pinyakong, Bioremediation Research Unit, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Stimulation of native microbial populations in soil by the addition of small amounts of secondary carbon sources (cosubstrates) and its effect on the degradation and theoretical mineralization of DDT [l,l,l-trichloro-2,2-bis( p -chlorophenyl)ethane] and its main metabolites, DDD and DDE, were evaluated. Microbial activity in soil polluted with DDT, DDE and DDD was increased by the presence of phenol, hexane and toluene as cosubstrates. The consumption of DDT was increased from 23 % in a control (without cosubstrate) to 67, 59 and 56 % in the presence of phenol, hexane and toluene, respectively. DDE was completely removed in all cases, and DDD removal was enhanced from 67 % in the control to ~86 % with all substrates tested, except for acetic acid and glucose substrates. In the latter cases, DDD removal was either inhibited or unchanged from the control. The optimal amount of added cosubstrate was observed to be between 0.64 and 2.6 mg C \text g - 1 \text dry soil . The CO 2 produced was higher than the theoretical amount for complete cosubstrate mineralization indicating possible mineralization of DDT and its metabolites. Bacterial communities were evaluated by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, which indicated that native soil and the untreated control presented a low bacterial diversity. The detected bacteria were related to soil microorganisms and microorganisms with known biodegradative potential. In the presence of toluene a bacterium related to Azoarcus , a genus that includes species capable of growing at the expense of aromatic compounds such as toluene and halobenzoates under denitrifying conditions, was detected. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9578-1 Authors Irmene Ortíz, Departamento de Procesos y Tecnología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Cuajimalpa, Artificios 40, Col. Hidalgo, Delegación Álvaro Obregón, 01120 Mexico, DF, Mexico Antonio Velasco, Centro Nacional de Investigación y Capacitación Ambiental, Instituto Nacional de Ecología, Mexico, DF, Mexico Sylvie Le Borgne, Departamento de Procesos y Tecnología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Cuajimalpa, Artificios 40, Col. Hidalgo, Delegación Álvaro Obregón, 01120 Mexico, DF, Mexico Sergio Revah, Departamento de Procesos y Tecnología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Cuajimalpa, Artificios 40, Col. Hidalgo, Delegación Álvaro Obregón, 01120 Mexico, DF, Mexico Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    A comprehensive study on the effects of different carbon sources during the bacterial enrichment on the removal performances of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) compounds when present as a mixture was conducted. Batch BTEX removal kinetic experiments were performed using cultures enriched with individual BTEX compounds or BTEX as a mixture or benzoate alone or benzoate–BTEX mixture. An integrated Monod-type non-linear model was developed and a ratio between maximum growth rate ( μ max ) and half saturation constant (K s ) was used to fit the non-linear model. A higher μ max /K s indicates a higher affinity to degrade BTEX compounds. Complete removal of BTEX mixture was observed by all the enriched cultures; however, the removal rates for individual compounds varied. Degradation rate and the type of removal kinetics were found to be dependent on the type of carbon source during the enrichment. Cultures enriched on toluene and those enriched on BTEX mixture were found to have the greatest μ max /K s and cultures enriched on benzoate had the least μ max /K s . Removal performances of the cultures enriched on all different carbon sources, including the ones enriched on benzoate or benzoate–BTEX mixture were also improved during a second exposure to BTEX. A molecular analysis showed that after each exposure to the BTEX mixture, the cultures enriched on benzoate and those enriched on benzoate–BTEX mixture had increased similarities to the culture enriched on BTEX mixture. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9586-1 Authors Murthy Kasi, Department of Civil Engineering, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA Tanush Wadhawan, Department of Civil Engineering, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA John McEvoy, Department of Veterinary and Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA G. Padmanabhan, Department of Civil Engineering, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA Eakalak Khan, Department of Civil Engineering, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    Over the past few decades significant progress has been made in research on DDT degradation in the environment. This review is an update of some of the recent studies on the degradation and biodegradation pathways of DDT and its metabolites, particularly in soils. The latest reports on human toxicity shows that DDT intake is still occurring even in countries that banned its use decades ago. Ageing, sequestration and formation of toxic metabolites during the degradation processes pose environmental challenges and result in difficulties in bioremediation of DDT contaminated soils. Degradation enhancement strategies such as the addition of chelators, low molecular organic acids, co-solvent washing and the use of sodium and seaweeds as ameliorant have been studied to accelerate degradation. This review describes and discusses the recent challenges and degradation enhancement strategies for DDT degradation by potentially cost effective procedures based on bioremediation. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9575-4 Authors Simi Sudharshan, Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA, Australia Ravi Naidu, Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA, Australia Megharaj Mallavarapu, Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA, Australia Nanthi Bolan, Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA, Australia Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    A sequencing batch reactor was employed to treat the acrylic fiber wastewater. The dissolved oxygen and mixed liquor suspended solids were 2–3 and 3,500–4,000 mg/L, respectively. The results showed ammonium oxidizing bacteria (AOB) had superior growth rate at high temperature than nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB). Partial nitrification could be obtained with the temperature of 28 °C. When the pH value was 8.5, the nitrite-N accumulation efficiency was 82 %. The combined inhibitions of high pH and free ammonium to NOB devoted to the nitrite-N buildup. Hydraulic retention time (HRT) was a key factor in partial nitrification control, and the optimal HRT was 20 h for nitrite-N buildup in acrylic fiber wastewater treatment. The ammonium oxidation was almost complete and the transformation from nitrite to nitrate could be avoided. AOB and NOB accounted for 2.9 and 4.7 %, respectively, corresponding to the pH of 7.0. When the pH was 8.5, they were 6.7 and 0.9 %, respectively. AOB dominated nitrifying bacteria, and NOB was actually washed out from the system. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9599-9 Authors Jin Li, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China Deshuang Yu, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China Peiyu Zhang, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

Description:    In biological nitrogen removal, application of the autotrophic anammox process is gaining ground worldwide. Although this field has been widely researched in last years, some aspects as the accelerating effect of putative intermediates (mainly N 2 H 4 and NH 2 OH) need more specific investigation. In the current study, experiments in a moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and batch tests were performed to evaluate the optimum concentrations of anammox process intermediates that accelerate the autotrophic nitrogen removal and mitigate a decrease in the anammox bacteria activity using anammox (anaerobic ammonium oxidation) biomass enriched on ring-shaped biofilm carriers. Anammox biomass was previously grown on blank biofilm carriers for 450 days at moderate temperature 26.0 (±0.5) °C by using sludge reject water as seeding material. FISH analysis revealed that anammox microorganisms were located in clusters in the biofilm. With addition of 1.27 and 1.31 mg N L −1 of each NH 2 OH and N 2 H 4 , respectively, into the MBBR total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency was rapidly restored after inhibitions by NO 2 − . Various combinations of N 2 H 4 , NH 2 OH, NH 4 + , and NO 2 − were used as batch substrates. The highest total nitrogen (TN) removal rate with the optimum N 2 H 4 concentration (4.38 mg N L −1 ) present in these batches was 5.43 mg N g −1 TSS h −1 , whereas equimolar concentrations of N 2 H 4 and NH 2 OH added together showed lower TN removal rates. Intermediates could be applied in practice to contribute to the recovery of inhibition-damaged wastewater treatment facilities using anammox technology. Content Type Journal Article Category Original Paper Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s10532-012-9549-6 Authors Ivar Zekker, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Kristel Kroon, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Ergo Rikmann, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Toomas Tenno, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Martin Tomingas, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Priit Vabamäe, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Siegfried E. Vlaeminck, Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Technology (LabMET), Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium Taavo Tenno, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila St., 50411 Tartu, Estonia Journal Biodegradation Online ISSN 1572-9729 Print ISSN 0923-9820

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