bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Nutritive Bioactive Constituents of Plants: Phytosterols
Authors: Miettinen  , Gylling
Published: January 2006

Normal human diet contains small amounts of phytosterols, mainly sitosterol and campesterol. Intestinal absorption of these plant sterols is low, about one tenth of that of cholesterol, such that their serum concentrations are also low, about 0.1 to 1% of the cholesterol levels. Like cholesterol they are transported by lipoproteins, mainly by LDL, and secreted unchanged in bile. Addition of plant sterols, or especially of their delta-5 saturated derivatives plant stanols into diet as fat-soluble esters inhibit cholesterol absorption and lower serum cholesterol similarly in short-term studies. Long-term consumption of plant stanol esters lowers serum cholesterol to the extent expected to reduce clinical manifestation of coronary heart disease by over 20% without detectable side effecs, cholesterol lowering being especially effective in combination with cholesterol synthesis inhibitors statins.
Plant Foods versus Compounds in Carcinogenesis; Observational versus Experimental Human Studies
Authors: Kampman  , Arts  , Hollman
Published: January 2006

The protective role of plant foods and its constituents in cancer prevention is under renewed debate since the results of recent observational studies on colorectal cancer as well as large-scale human experimental studies on colorectal adenoma recurrence are disappointing. However, most short-term experimental human studies do show that plant foods favourably modulate potential cancer-preventive mechanisms. Which methodological pitfalls may explain the inconsistencies within and between different study designs? What are the advantages and limitations of the different study approaches? Observational studies do have the advantage to study the population at large with ultimate disease as the study endpoint. These studies are limited by the difficulty to estimate intake of individual compounds by questionnaires and the lack of biological markers of relevant exposure. Controlled experimental short-term studies in humans rely on biological markers of disease as intermediate endpoints. Relatively low sensitivity and specificity of these markers may complicate extrapolation of results. In the case of long-term and large-scale human intervention studies with disease endpoints, issues such as time, dose and duration of intervention, compliance and choice of the study population influence the interpretation of results. An integrated approach combining designs, and implementing new techniques to identify biomarkers, may clarify the role of plant foods in carcinogenesis.
Transformation of Flavonoids by Intestinal Microorganisms
Authors: Blaut  , Schoefer  , Braune
Published: January 2006

Fruit, vegetables and cereals contain a wealth of secondary plant metabolites which have been implicated in the promotion of health. To understand the mechanism of their action it is necessary to gain more information on their fate in the body following ingestion. A certain proportion of ingested secondary plant constituents may escape absorption in the small intestine and therefore undergo transformation by intestinal microorganisms or enterohepatic circulation. To study the transformation of secondary plant metabolites by bacteria, Eubacterium ramulus was isolated from human feces and incubated with selected flavonoids. E. ramulus is a strictly anaerobic bacterium which was found to be present in the gastrointestinal tract of most individuals investigated. E. ramulus cleaves the ring system of several flavonols and flavones giving rise to the corresponding hydroxyphenylacetic and hydroxyphenylpropionic acids, respectively, as well as acetate and butyrate. Degradation pathways were proposed based on the intermediates detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and HPLC coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and the detection of enzymes that catalyze reactions such as taxifolin isomerization, phloretin hydrolysis and phloroglucinol reduction. The dearomatizing phloroglucinol reductase, presumably part of all flavonoid degradation pathways, was purified and characterized. The gene encoding phloretin hydrolase was cloned from a E. ramulus gene library taking advantage of a newly developed fluorescence test for activity screening. Moreover, a new intermediate was discovered and identified by MS and 1H and 13C NMR analysis as alphitonin. To investigate the degradational potential of E. ramulus under in vivo conditions, germfree rats were associated with E. ramulus. Following the intragastric application of quercetin-3-glucoside, urine and feces of gnotobiotic rats were analyzed for degradational products originating from quercetin-3-glucoside. In feces of rats monoassociated with E. ramulus, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid was found, indicating that this organism is able to cleave quercetin under in vivo conditions. To investigate in which way the dietary flavonoid content affects the cell counts of E. ramulus in the human intestinal tract, twelve human subjects consumed a flavonoid-free diet for one week and at one point during this period a large dose of flavonoids. Fecal samples from both phases of the study were analyzed by in-situ hybridization for total bacterial counts and counts of E. ramulus. Total cell counts and the cell counts of E. ramulus decreased significantly during the flavonoid-free period, while there was an increase in the E. ramulus counts of up to 10-fold during the flavonoid-rich period indicating that dietary secondary plant metabolites may have an influence on the intestinal microflora. E. ramulus is also capable of converting the isoflavonoids genistein and daidzein to the products 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionic acid and O-desmethylangolensin, respectively.
Non-Nutritive Bioactive Food Constituents of Plants: Lycopene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Authors: Sies  , Stahl
Published: January 2006

Lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are major carotenoids in human blood and tissues but unlike b-carotene do not contribute to vitamin A supply. These carotenoids are efficient antioxidants quenching singlet molecular oxygen which is formed in photooxidative processes and thus may contribute to the prevention of light-exposed tissue, skin and eyes, from light-induced damage. Increasing lycopene intake by daily consumption of tomato paste over a period of ten weeks provides protection against erythema formation following UV-irradiation. Lycopene and other carotenoids may be used as oral sun protectants and contribute to the maintenance of skin health. The yellow color of the macula lutea is due to the presence of the carotenoid pigments lutein and zeaxanthin. These macula carotenoids are suggested to play a role in protection against light-dependent damage. Filtering of blue light and scavenging of reactive intermediates generated in photooxidation are considered to be the underlying protective mechanisms. Epidemiological studies provide evidence that an increased consumption of lutein is associated with a lowered risk for age-related macular degeneration, a disease with increasing incidence in the elderly.
Estimation of Energy Requirements for Adults: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Mirmiran  , Mohammadi  , Allahverdian  , Azizi
Published: January 2006

Objective: This study was conducted to determine the energy intake of adult residents of district 13 of Tehran and compare the results with their energy requirements. Design: In this cross-sectional study, 403 subjects were selected by random sampling, including 145 men and 151 women aged 25–50 years and 57 men and 50 women over 50 years old in the framework of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Measurements: Height, body weight, waist and hip circumferences were measured, and the body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were calculated. Mean energy requirements for each sex-age group were estimated by multiplying specific coefficients (allocated to each group) by body weight and resting energy expenditure (REE), and the results of both methods were compared with mean energy values recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) /World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. recommended dietary allowance (RDA). Dietary assessment was performed by 48-hour diet recall. A ratio of energy intake to basal metabolic rate lower than 1.27 was considered as under-reporting. Physical activity was evaluated by standard questionnaire of the Lipid Research Clinics (LRC). Results: Women were significantly more overweight and obese than men (p < 0.001) and older women were more obese than younger ones (p < 0.05). Only one-third of the study population had adequate physical activity. Women had significantly lower physical activity than men (p < 0.01). Energy requirements for both age and sex groups were lower than recommended daily allowances for energy: men 25–50; 2576 vs. 2900; men > 50: 2155 vs. 2300; women 20–50: 2045 vs. 2200 and women > 50: 1817 vs. 1900 kilocalories (kcal). Reported energy intake of men was higher and that of women was lower than the RDA. Forty percent of women and 14% of men under-reported their energy intake. Conclusion: The energy requirement of the average Tehranian is lower than daily allowances; conditions of obesity and overweight are more prevalent in women. There is high frequency of under-reporting of energy intake in women. Lifestyle modifications to improve dietary habits and to increase physical activity are recommended to decrease overweight and obesity in urban population of Tehran.
Comparison of Lutein Bioavailability from Vegetables and Supplement
Authors: Riso  , Brusamolino  , Ciappellano  , Porrini
Published: January 2006

Lutein is a carotenoid present in dark green leafy vegetables and it may be involved in the prevention of several diseases related to oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate bioavailability of lutein from different food sources (150 g spinach and 200 g broccoli) and a supplement in oil (300 mg VEGEX), all providing about 9 mg lutein. Eight healthy females were instructed to eat a low-carotenoid diet for the period of experimentation. On three different occasions, three weeks apart, volunteers ate the lutein sources together with 10 g olive oil and 40 g bread. Blood samples were collected just before eating, every two hours for 12 hours, and at 24, 32, 56, 80 and 104 hours. Lutein concentration increased significantly after six to eight hours and peaked after 10–12 hours, with the highest concentration reached after VEGEX intake. Lutein concentration remained significantly elevated for up to 80 hours (VEGEX and spinach). On the whole, our results suggest that the intake of one single dose of lutein from different sources is able to bring about a significant plasma response in the short term.
Plasma Ubiquinone Status and Response to Six-Month Supplementation Combined with Multivitamins in Healthy Elderly Women – Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Wolters  , Hahn
Published: January 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum coenzyme Q10 concentrations of healthy elderly women before and after supplementation with coenzyme Q10 combined with multivitamins, selenium, and magnesium. In a randomized double-blind design, 220 free-living women aged 60 years and older were included. Median serum coenzyme Q10 concentration at baseline was 0.99 mumol/L (5–95 percentiles: 0.54–1.68) and cholesterol adjusted concentration was 0.16 (5–95 percentiles: 0.09–0.26) mmol/mol cholesterol. No significant correlations were found between Q10 levels and body mass index (BMI) or age. Q10 concentrations were not significantly different between smoking and nonsmoking women, nor between women with statin therapy and without. Furthermore no differences were seen between hyperlipidemic and normolipidemic subjects. Cholesterol-adjusted Q10 levels were positively correlated to lipid-adjusted serum tocopherol levels and negatively associated to serum beta-carotene. No significant correlation existed between adjusted Q10 levels and plasma selenium. Results of the food diaries showed a significant but weak correlation to meat and meat products and to alcohol intake. At baseline, Q10 levels did not differ between supplemented and control group. After six months, adjusted serum concentrations of the supplemented and the control group were significantly increased by 106% and 31%, respectively. In the supplemented group the change was inversely associated with the baseline concentration. A six-month supplementation with coenzyme Q10, vitamins, and selenium raises the blood concentration of coenzyme Q10 even in relatively well-nourished elderly women.
Plasma Carotenoid Levels in Relation to Tobacco Smoking and Demographic Factors
Authors: Lagiou  , Benetou  , Tebelis  , Papas  , Naska  , Trichopoulou
Published: January 2006

Antioxidant compounds have been reported to play a beneficial role in the etiology of several chronic diseases. To examine the effects of tobacco smoking and demographic factors on the plasma levels of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, beta-cryptoxanthin, and jointly, lutein-zeaxanthin, we have conducted a cross-sectional study in the context of the Greek segment of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and nutrition (EPIC). A random sample of 45 men and 68 women, aged 30–82 years, from the Greek EPIC cohort of 27953 volunteers, provided fasting blood samples and completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire on lifestyle factors. Data were analyzed using linear regression models with the studied vitamin plasma levels as dependent variables, and tobacco smoking and demographic factors as independent variables. Older persons had significantly lower alpha-carotene levels and significantly higher lutein-zeaxanthin levels, whereas females in comparison to males had significantly higher levels of alpha-carotene and perhaps beta-carotene. Tobacco smoking tended to reduce levels of all carotenoids studied and the reduction was statistically significant with respect to beta-cryptoxanthin and beta-carotene, whereas it was of borderline significance with respect to beta-carotene.
In Vitro Effects of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 on Interferon-gamma and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha Secretion by Blood Leukocytes from Young and Adult Cattle Vaccinated with Mycobacterium bovis BCG
Authors: Nonnecke  , Waters  , Foote  , Horst  , Fowler  , Miller
Published: January 2006

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) are critical in the development of an effective immune response. Vitamin D, essential in short-term calcium homeostasis and recently shown to modulate proliferation and function of blood mononuclear cells from adult dairy cattle, may be an effective modulator of the calf’s immune system. Effects of antigen sensitization and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] on cytokine secretion by cells from calves vaccinated with Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) were examined. One-week-old dairy calves (n = 6) and yearling heifers (n = 4) were vaccinated concurrently with BCG and boosted six weeks later. Ten weeks after primary vaccination, cells from vaccinated calves and adults, and nonvaccinated, age-matched calves (n = 4) were evaluated in vitro for their capacity to produce IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha. Cells were stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM) or recall antigen [Mycobacterium bovis-derived purified protein derivative (PPD)] in the presence of 0, 0.1, 1.0, and 10nM of 1,25-(OH)2D3 for 20, 44, and 68 hours, respectively. IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha concentrations in culture supernatants harvested at these times were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). PPD-induced IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha responses of cells from vaccinated calves and adults were greater than responses of autologous unstimulated cells. In contrast, PPD-specific responses of calf and adult cells collected immediately before primary vaccination were substantially lower and comparable to responses in resting (i.e., unstimulated) cultures. At ten weeks, the PPD-specific response of vaccinates exceeded the response of nonvaccinated calves; however, responses of vaccinated calves were more vigorous than corresponding responses of vaccinated adults. Incubation period also influenced the magnitude of both IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha responses in PPD- and PWM-stimulated cultures. Effects of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on antigen-induced secretion of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha were marginal. Only IFN-gamma responses of vaccinated adults were affected by 1,25-(OH)2D3. Vitamin D caused a concentration-dependent decrease in IFN-gamma response and an increase in TNF-alpha response in PWM-stimulated cultures. These results indicate that animal maturity (i.e., age) and antigenic experience affect IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha secretion by bovine leukocytes and suggest that 1,25-(OH)2D3 can alter secretion of both cytokines under specific conditions of culture.
The Effect of Low Concentrations of Ascorbic Acid in Microbial Adherence in vitro
Authors: Lianou  , Fortis  , Papavassilliou
Published: January 2006

In the present study, we examined the in vitro effect of low concentrations of ascorbic acid (lower than normal plasma levels), on the adherence of five microbial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) to human buccal epithelial cells (BEC) of healthy volunteers. The study reached the following conclusions: 1) the presence of ascorbic acid significantly reduces the ability of all tested strains (with the exception of Klebsiella pneumoniae) to adhere to BEC; 2) ascorbic acid interacts with the epithelial cells and decreases the adherence of all tested microorganisms. These findings may be of potential clinical significance.
Absorption and Conversion of a Single Oral Dose of beta-Carotene in Corn Oil to Vitamin A in Sprague-Dawley Rats with Low Reserve of Vitamin A
Authors: Barua
Published: January 2006

This study was carried out to determine how much of a single oral dose of beta-carotene in oil is absorbed and how much of the absorbed dose is converted to retinoids in rats having a vitamin A reserve at the lowest end of adequate status. Weanling rats raised on a vitamin A-deficient diet for four weeks were given a single oral dose of either corn oil or beta-carotene dissolved in corn oil (1.86 mumol). Serum, liver, and the entire digestive tract of the rats were analyzed for carotenoids and retinoids. Results showed that 4 hours after dosing, 1.64 mumol (88%) of the dose of beta-carotene was found intact, with 17.6% found in the stomach, 21% in the small intestine, and 49.3% in the large intestine. A total of 0.28 mumol of newly formed retinoids (expressed as retinyl palmitate) was present in serum, liver, and mucosa of small intestine. The results suggest that a single oral dose of beta-carotene might not be an effective way of raising vitamin A status in rats.
Effect of beta-Carotene Supplementation on Plasma and Yolk IgY Levels Induced by NDV Vaccination in Japanese Quail
Authors: Kiss  , Bárdos  , Szabó  , Lengyel  , Szabó
Published: January 2006

Newly hatched Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) chicks were fed diets containing different levels of retinoids (vitamin A) or beta-carotene. Group A received a commercial diet containing 10000 IU vitamin A per kilogram. The diets of Groups B, C, and D contained no vitamin A but were supplemented with 1-, 2.5-, and 5-fold retinol equivalents of beta-carotene. Each group contained 16 quails in a 1:1 sex ratio. At 8 weeks of age the quails were immunized orally with Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Boosters were given three times at two-week intervals. Blood samples were taken at two-week intervals until 14 weeks of age. The anti-NDV IgY titre was determined by a locally developed direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Groups A and B showed nearly the same antibody response. This indicates that the preformed vitamin A and the equivalent beta-carotene have the same immunomodulatory effect. Groups receiving higher doses of beta-carotene (Groups C and D) exhibited significantly higher plasma IgY levels compared to Groups A and B. The results indicate that elevated doses of beta-carotene have a slight effect on the adaptive immune response in Japanese quail.
Vitamin E Supplementation Increases LDL Resistance to ex vivo Oxidation in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Badiou  , Cristol  , Morena  , Bosc  , Carbonneau  , Dupuy  , Descomps  , Canaud
Published: January 2006

Background: Oxidative stress and alterations in lipid metabolism observed in hemodialysis patients potentiate the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidability, recognized as a key event during early atherogenesis. Objective: To explore the effects of an oral vitamin E supplementation on oxidative stress markers and LDL oxidability in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Fourteen hemodialysis patients and six healthy volunteers were given oral vitamin E (500 mg/day) for six months. Oxidative stress was assessed using: plasma and lipoprotein vitamin E levels [high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedure]; thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS, Yaggi method); and copper-induced LDL oxidation. All parameters were evaluated before initiation of vitamin E supplementation, and at three and six months thereafter. Results: At baseline, a significantly higher TBARS concentration and a higher LDL oxidability were observed in hemodialysis patients when compared to controls. After six months of vitamin E supplementation, TBARS and LDL oxidability were normalized in hemodialysis patients. Conclusion: Our data confirm that hemodialysis patients are exposed to oxidative stress and increased susceptibility to ex vivo LDL oxidation. Since oral vitamin E supplementation prevents oxidative stress and significantly increases LDL resistance to ex vivo oxidation, supplementation by natural antioxidants such as vitamin E may be beneficial in hemodialysis patients.
Influence of the Origin and Level of Dietary Protein on TBI-Induced Oxidative Damage in Mice
Authors: Shin
Published: January 2006

The influence of the origin and level of dietary protein on oxidative damage of lipid, protein, and DNA in mice after total body irradiation (TBI) was examined. Male mice were fed two types of dietary protein (casein and soybean protein) and different dietary protein levels (casein, 8% and 20%; soybean protein, 8% and 20%), and then treated with TBI with X-rays. The levels of lipid peroxides and chromosomal damage did not differ among the groups that did not receive TBI. However, the oxidative damage of lipid increased due to TBI only in the 8% protein group. The chromosomal damage in bone marrow increased due to TBI regardless of the different protein diets, and the damage was higher in the 8% protein group than that in the 20% protein group. Protein carbonyl levels were consistently higher in the 8% protein group than in the 20% protein group. In the 8% protein group, a greater decrease in the relative spleen weight was also observed. Concentrations of antioxidants [vitamins C, E, and glutathione (GSH)] in the liver were lower, and the concentration of non-heme iron in the liver was higher in the 8% protein group than in the 20% protein groups. Mice fed a low-protein diet became susceptible to TBI-induced oxidative damage regardless of the origin of protein. Vitamin C and E values of the soybean protein group were markedly lower than those of the casein group.
Impact of Vitamin A Megadose Supplementation on the Anthropometry of Children and Adolescents with Non-Hormonal Statural Deficit: a Double-blind and Randomized Clinical Study
Authors: Sarni  , Kochi  , Ramalho  , Schoeps  , Sato  , Mattoso  , Pessotti  , Souza  , Damiani  , Catherino
Published: January 2006

Objective: To evaluate the intake of retinol and carotenoids, and their serum levels, as well as the impact of vitamin A supplementation on the anthropometry and body composition of children and adolescents with non-hormonal-related statural deficit. Method: Double-blind, randomized trial of 46 pre-pubertal patients, between 4 and 14 years of age, with normal growth rates. The subjects were divided into two groups, each with 23 individuals (Group I: Placebo; Group II: Vitamin A in a single megadose), and were evaluated at moments A and B with a six month interval. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in serum retinol levels, anthropometry, growth velocity, or body composition, between moments A and B, in Group II. Carotenoids were significantly lower in Group I at moment B. The semi-quantitative food intake questionnaire showed that approximately 60.9% of the children and adolescents ingested less than half of the amounts of retinol and carotenoids recommended by the Food Guide Pyramid. Inadequate intake was more prevalent regarding vegetable and fruit carotenoid sources, with 75 and 70% of inadequacy, respectively. Conclusion: If one considers the inadequate food intake observed in the dietary evaluation in this study, it is possible that multiple micronutrient deficiencies could be involved in statural deficits. This could explain why vitamin A supplementation does not seem to influence growth in children and adolescents with statural deficit, as indicated by the present study. Thus in populations such as the one studied here, the supplementation with vitamin A should be integrated into comprehensive nutritional interventions, so as to possibly promote greater positive impact on linear growth.
Suppressive Effect of Viscous Dietary Fiber on Elevations of Uric Acid in Serum and Urine Induced by Dietary RNA in Rats is Associated with Strength of Viscosity
Authors: Koguchi  , Nakajima  , Koguchi  , Wada  , Yamamoto  , Innami  , Maekawa  , Tadokoro
Published: January 2006

This study was performed to clarify how dietary fiber (DF) with different viscosities would be associated with dietary RNA metabolism. Male Wistar strain rats, four weeks old, were fed diets containing a 3% (w/w) yeast RNA and a 5% (w/w) viscous DF for five days. Viscosity of DF samples used, in order of strength, were xanthan gum (XG)> guar gum (GG)> locust bean gum (LBG)> karaya gum (KG)> pectin (PE) = arabic gum (AG)> CM-cellulose (CMC) = inulin (IN). The serum uric acid concentration in the viscous DF groups significantly decreased as compared with that in the cellulose (CL) group. The urinary excretions of uric acid and allantoin in the respective groups given AG, GG, IN, KG, PE, and XG were significantly suppressed as compared with those in the CL group. The fecal RNA excretion was markedly increased in the IN, KG, PE, and XG groups in comparison to the CL group. The DF with high viscosity significantly suppressed RNA digestion by RNase A and decreased uptakes of 14C-labeled adenosine and adenosine 5’-monophosphate (5’-AMP) in rat jejunum. The results reveal that the suppressive effect of DF on elevation of serum uric acid concentration induced by dietary RNA in rats is associated with the strength of DF viscosity. The mechanism by which this is accomplished is suggested to be attributed to the inhibitions of digestion for dietary RNA and/or absorption of the hydrolyzed compounds.
Influence of Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Formula Feeds on Vitamin E Status in Preterm Infants
Authors: Kaempf-Rotzoll  , Hellstern  , Linderkamp
Published: January 2006

It has been recommended to supplement formulas for preterm infants with n-3 and n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCP) to improve growth, visual acuity, and neurodevelopmental performance. However, large amounts of LCP may increase lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in preterm infants. We investigated if, under high supplementation of natural tocopherols, LCP addition to formula can be performed safely without causing tocopherol depletion in cell membranes. Thirty-one healthy preterm infants with gestational ages from 28 to 32 weeks were evaluated in a prospective, randomized study from birth to day 42. Nine infants received an n-3 and n-6 LCP-enriched formula (A), eleven infants a standard formula (B), and eleven infants breast milk (control group). Alpha- and gamma-tocopherol extracts were added to both formulas, amounting to five times the value in breast milk (2.3 mg/dL in both formulas versus 0.45 mg/dL in breast milk). Erythrocyte arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the phosphatidylethanolamine fraction were similar in the three groups over the study period, whereas a significant reduction of erythrocyte AA and DHA could be detected in the phosphatidylcholine fraction in all three groups from day 14 onwards, when compared to respective cord blood values, with lowest values in the standard formula group. Amazingly, levels of alpha- and gamma-tocopherol were higher in plasma, erythrocytes, platelets, monocytes, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes with LCP supplementation as compared to standard formula and breast milk from day 7 onwards, whereas in buccal mucosal cells, this was not the case until day 42. Gamma-tocopherol uptake in the LCP-supplemented group was also significantly higher in all cell fractions studied from day 7 onwards. We therefore hypothesize that the LCP supplementation used in formula A improves tocopherol solubility and stability in biological membranes. Under high-dose vitamin E addition to n-3 and n-6 LCP-supplemented formula, no evidence for tocopherol depletion and furthermore, high accumulation of tocopherols, can be detected in healthy preterm infants.
Effects of Lifestyle Modification and Lipid Intake Variations on Patients with Peripheral Vascular Disease
Authors: Nestares  , López-Jurado  , Urbano  , Seiquer  , Ramírez-Tortosa  , Ros  , Mataix  , Gil
Published: January 2006

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of diets enriched in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (olive oil) or MUFA plus n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (olive oil plus fish oil), associated with an intervention program that focused on lifestyle habits, physical performance, plasma lipids, and lipoprotein composition in patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD). A 15-month longitudinal nutritional and lifestyle intervention study was carried out with 24 free-living male patients aged 58.0 ± 2.2 years diagnosed with PVD (Fontaine grade II). The patients were clinically evaluated and counseled to change their dietary and lifestyle habits for six months, after this period they consumed an olive oil-based diet for three months; after a three-month wash-out period, their diet was supplemented with a combination of fish oil and olive oil for the final three months. Lifestyle interventions resulted in a significant decrease in cigarette smoking and an increase in physical activity. Claudicometry was lower at the end of the study than at the beginning. Intake of the fish oil supplement led to significant changes in lipid lipoprotein composition, decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The lifestyle intervention program, together with a high intake of olive plus fish oil, seems to produce important beneficial effects in nutritional management, physical performance, and clinical parameters of PVD patients.
Pilot Clinical Trial of the Use of Alpha-tocopherol for the Prevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Takagi  , Kakizaki  , Sohara  , Sato  , Tsukioka  , Tago  , Konaka  , Kabeya  , Kaneko  , Takayama  , Hashimoto  , Yamada  , Takahashi  , Shimojo  , Nagamine  , Mori
Published: January 2006

Patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection often develop liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The purpose of this study was to test the chemopreventive effect of alpha-tocopherol on hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with liver cirrhosis and a history of HCV infection. Eighty-three patients with liver cirrhosis and with positive history of HCV infection were divided at random into two groups. Forty-four patients were treated with alpha-tocopherol (Vit E group) while the other 39 were followed as controls. The clinical background (gender, age, and laboratory data) was similar in the two groups. Serum levels of alpha-tocopherol, albumin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total cholesterol and platelet count were measured serially over a period of five years. The mean serum concentration of alpha-tocopherol was low in both groups at entry and was significantly higher in the Vit E group than in the control group one month after treatment. Platelet count, serum albumin, ALT, and total cholesterol were not different between the two groups during the five-year period. Cumulative tumor-free survival and cumulative survival rate tended to be higher in the Vit E group than in controls, albeit statistically insignificant. The serum level of alpha-tocopherol was low in patients with liver cirrhosis and positive for HCV. Although the administration of alpha-tocopherol normalized the level one month later, it could neither improve liver function, suppress hepatocarcinogenesis, nor improve cumulative survival. Patients treated with alpha-tocopherol tended to live longer without development of HCC but the difference was not statistically significant.
Influence of Maternal Education on Food Consumption and Energy and Nutrient Intake in a Group of Pre-School Children from Madrid
Authors: Navia  , Ortega  , Requejo  , Perea  , López-Sobaler  , Faci
Published: January 2006

A study was conducted on the influence of maternal education level on food consumption, energy and nutrient intake, and dietary adequacy in 110 pre-school children from Madrid, Spain. With increasing maternal education, children consumed more sugar (p < 0.05), fruit (p < 0.05), and fish (p < 0.05). Snacking was more frequent with decreasing maternal education (p < 0.05). Though statistical significance was not reached, the consumption of pre-cooked foods was greater among children of mothers educated to a higher level, a phenomenon probably related to the work situation of these women. With respect to dietary composition, no significant differences were found between groups for macronutrient, fiber and energy intakes, except for energy supplied by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), which was greater in the children of less educated women (p < 0.01). This is probably due to their greater consumption of sunflower seed oil. The diets of children belonging to well-educated mothers came closer to meeting the recommended intakes for folate, vitamin C, and iodine. It would seem that maternal educational level influences the food habits of children. Mothers with less education may require special advice in this area.
Effects of a Dietary Oxidized Fat on Cholesterol in Plasma and Lipoproteins and the Susceptibility of Low-density Lipoproteins to Lipid Peroxidation in Guinea Pigs Fed Diets with Different Concentrations of Vitamins E and C
Authors: Eder  , Keller  , Brandsch
Published: January 2006

To investigate the effect of a dietary oxidized fat on the concentrations of cholesterol in liver, plasma, and lipoproteins and the susceptibility of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) to lipid peroxidation, and to explore the effects of vitamins E and C, male guinea pigs were divided into five groups. Four groups were fed diets with an oxidized fat supplemented with 35 or 175 mg alpha-tocopherol equivalents/kg and 300 or 1000 mg of vitamin C/kg for 29 days. One group, used as a control, was fed the same basal diet with fresh fat with 35 mg alpha-tocopherol equivalents/kg and 300 mg of vitamin C/kg. Guinea pigs fed the oxidized-fat diets, irrespective of dietary vitamin E and C concentrations, had significantly lower concentrations of total cholesterol in the liver and a lower concentration of cholesterol in LDL than the control animals fed the fresh fat. According to the lag time before onset of lipid peroxidation, LDL of guinea pigs fed the oxidized-fat diet with 35 mg alpha-tocopherol equivalents and 300 mg vitamin C/kg were significantly more susceptible to copper-induced lipid peroxidation than those of guinea pigs fed the fresh fat diet. Within the groups fed the oxidized fat diets, increasing the dietary vitamin E concentration from 35 to 175 mg/kg significantly (p < 0.05) and increasing the dietary vitamin C concentration from 300 to 1000 mg/kg in tendency (p < 0.10) reduced the susceptibility of LDL to oxidation. LDL of guinea pigs fed the oxidized fat diets with 175 mg alpha-tocopherol equivalents/kg were even more resistant to oxidation than LDL of guinea pigs fed the fresh diet. In conclusion, the study shows that dietary oxidized fat influences the cholesterol metabolism and the susceptibility of LDL to lipid peroxidation; the latter can be modified by dietary vitamins E and C.
The Use of Iron-fortified Wheat Flour to Reduce Anemia Among the Estate Population in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nestel  , Nalubola  , Sivakaneshan  , Wickramasinghe  , Atukorala  , Wickramanayake
Published: January 2006

The use of flour fortified with 66 mg/kg of electrolytic or reduced iron to reduce the prevalence of anemia was determined in a two-year, double-blind, controlled trial. The trial was conducted in Sri Lanka among preschoolers between 9 and 71 months old, primary schoolers 6 to 11 years old, and nonpregnant women. At baseline, 18.4% of the preschoolers had low hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations. Neither electrolytic nor reduced iron had an effect on Hb concentration among preschoolers. Only 7% of the primary schoolers were anemic at the start of the trial and, again, fortification had no effect on Hb concentration. Twenty-nine percent of women had a low Hb at outset and there was no evidence that fortification had an effect on Hb in this group. The findings from this study suggest that fortification of flour with electrolytic iron or reduced iron was not beneficial in reducing anemia in this population. This was probably due to the low prevalence of anemia and low bioavailability of the fortificant iron. Fortification with either iron fortificant was acceptable.
A Potential Role for beta-Carotene in Avian Embryonic Development
Authors: Mora  , Kuri-Melo  , González-Gallardo  , Meléndez  , Morales  , Shimada  , Varela-Echavarría
Published: January 2006

Vitamin A is essential for vertebrate embryonic development; dietary carotenoids are the primary source of vitamin A since animals cannot synthesize it de novo. To study the role of beta-carotene during embryonic development, we analyzed in chick embryos the expression of beta,beta-carotene 15,15'-oxygenase (beta-oxy) which cleaves beta-carotene to produce two molecules of retinal. beta-oxy transcripts were detected in one-and-a-half- to five-day-old embryo homogenates and in situ hybridization in five-day-old embryos, revealing their presence in tissues including the central nervous system, lungs, limbs, and cardiovascular system. Moreover, we detected beta-oxy enzymatic activity in extracts from five-day-old embryos as well as small amounts of beta-carotene in the egg yolk. These results indicate that beta-oxy is present during early developmental stages, raising the possibility that yolk-stored beta-carotene is utilized as a source of vitamin A. Thus, our results suggest that beta-carotene could play an important role in early avian embryonic development as a local source of vitamin A in specific tissues.
Effect of Age on Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations in Young and Elderly Subjects Considering Serum Vitamin Concentrations and Different Lifestyle Factors
Authors: Straßburg  , Krems  , Lührmann  , Hartmann  , Neuhäuser-Berthold
Published: January 2006

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate whether an increase in total homocysteine (tHcy) concentration with increasing age is due to diminishing serum concentrations of pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP), vitamin B-12, and folate. The possible influence of different lifestyle factors on tHcy concentration was considered. Methods: Plasma tHcy, serum concentrations of pyridoxal-5-phosphate, vitamin B-12, and folate, intake of coffee and tea, alcohol, and methionine, as well as cigarette smoking, were determined in 252 elderly subjects (60–87 years old) of the longitudinal study on nutrition and health status in an aging population in Gießen (GISELA) and 99 young adults (20–34 years old) of the study on health and nutrition of young adults (GEJE). Results: Mean plasma tHcy concentrations were significantly higher in elderly than in young female subjects (9.7 ± 1.9 mumol/L vs. 9.0 ± 1.6 mumol/L, p < 0.05), but there was no difference between elderly and young men (10.6 ± 2.1 mumol/L vs. 10.7 ± 2.6 mumol/L). No differences in tHcy were observed between young and elderly subjects after adjustment for serum concentrations of PLP, vitamin B-12, and folate. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant influence of age only in elderly, but not in younger subjects. Conclusion: Higher tHcy concentrations in the elderly, in comparison to younger women, are due to lower serum concentrations of PLP, vitamin B-12, and folate, whereas within the age group of elderly subjects alone tHcy concentrations increase with age irrespective of serum vitamin concentrations.
Nutrient Supplementation as Adjunct Therapy in Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Chandra
Published: January 2006

The study examined the effect of supplementation with multivitamins and trace elements on microbiological and radiological recovery in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Forty-four patients aged 28–50 years were diagnosed with active pulmonary tuberculosis based on X-ray of the chest and smear examination of the sputum for the presence of acid-fast bacilli. They were all treated for six months with a standard anti-tuberculosis regimen that has been found to be effective worldwide for disease control. The subjects were randomized to receive either a multivitamin-trace element supplement or a placebo containing calcium. The two groups were matched on all relevant confounding variables. At two months into the treatment, the group that was supplemented with a multivitamin-trace element preparation showed a significant reduction in the number of individuals with sputum smear positive for acid-fast bacillus: two out of 22 individuals, compared with seven out of 22 among placebo-treated controls (p = 0.028, Fisher’s test). It is concluded that patients with tuberculosis should be supplemented with a suitable micronutrient preparation that contains optimum amounts of all vitamins and trace elements that have been documented to enhance the immune response.
Who and How Many People Are Taking Herbal Supplements? A Survey of 21923 Adults
Authors: Harrison  , Holt  , Pattison  , Elton
Published: January 2006

Background: There is little information on the number and characteristics of adults taking herbal supplements and the relationship of this with other health and lifestyle factors. These were examined in the current study. Methods: Information on herbal supplement use and health and lifestyle characteristics was obtained by postal questionnaire, sent to a sample of the adult population in Northwest England. Results: In summer 2001, 70.5% (15,465/21,923) of questionnaires were returned. The mean age of responders was 49.8 years (SD 17.57) and 45.2% (6,986/15,465) were men. The percentage taking at least one herbal supplement was 12.8% (1,987/15,465). Users of herbal supplements were more likely to be younger, female, white, and to own their home. Herbal supplement use was not strongly associated with any health and lifestyle variables examined. Weak associations were found with physical activity, psychiatric caseness, and use of prescribed medications. The most common herbal supplement was evening primrose oil, taken by 7.7% (1,186/ 15,465) of respondents (12.7% of women and 1.1% of men). Conclusions: More than one in ten adults were taking herbal supplements, with evening primrose oil, the most common supplement, used mainly by women. Individual characteristics such as age, sex, ethnicity, and social class influenced the use of herbal supplements, but there was no evidence that this substituted for conventional medical care. The evidence base to support some popular herbal supplements is weak. Large well-designed trials are needed to quantify the value of herbal supplements to health and well-being.
High Intake of Magnesium in Relation to the Ruminal Transmural Potential Difference and Magnesium Absorption in Wethers
Authors: Jittakhot  , Schonewille  , Haddad  , Wouterse  , Yuangklang  , Beynen
Published: January 2006

High potassium (K) intakes are known to decrease magnesium (Mg) absorption in ruminants by increasing the transmural potential difference (PDt, serosal side = positive). High Mg intakes are known to increase the amount of Mg absorbed, which may be explained by increasing the ruminal Mg concentration, but an effect on the PDt cannot be excluded. The objective of this study was to determine whether or not Mg intake affects the PDt. In a 3x3 Latin square design, six ruminally fistulated wethers were fed a low-Mg, low-K ration (3.88 g Mg/kg dry matter (DM); 30.7 g K/kg DM), a high-Mg, low K-ration (16.79 g Mg/kg DM; 30.7 g K/kg DM), and a low-Mg ration high-K (3.88 g Mg/kg DM or 62.1 g K/kg DM). When compared with the low-Mg, low-K ration, the high-Mg, low-K ration raised the absolute apparent Mg absorption (g/day) by 421% and the low-Mg, high-K ration decreased it by 20%. The intake of extra K produced a significant increase in the PDt. The intake of extra Mg did not change the PDt across the rumen wall but produced a significant increase of the ruminal Mg concentrations. On the basis of the individual values for three rations, the mean post feeding ruminal Mg concentrations were found to be unrelated to the PDt (Pearson's r = –0.329, p = 0.183, n = 18). Thus, it is concluded that the observed increase in Mg absorption after a high Mg intake can be explained by an increase in the ruminal Mg concentration rather than by a change in PDt.
Meat and Meat Products Consumption in Italy: Contribution to Trace Elements, Heme Iron and selected B Vitamins supply
Authors: Lombardi-Boccia  , Lanzi  , Lucarini  , Di Lullo
Published: January 2006

This study was undertaken to estimate the contribution of meat and meat products consumption to the daily intakes of trace elements (Fe, Zn, Cu, Se), heme iron, and selected B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin) in Italy. Meat and meat products were selected on the basis of their consumption frequency reported by the most recent nationwide dietary individual survey carried out in Italy (INN-CA study). The daily intakes of total iron and heme iron were 1.65 and 1.13 mg/person/day. Zinc intake was 3.65 mg/person/day. Beef made the main contribution to iron, heme iron, and zinc daily intakes. Copper daily intake was 107.3 mug/person/day, with meat products provided the highest contribution (40 mug/person/day). Daily intake of selenium (7.14 mug/person/day) was provided mainly by poultry consumption. Thiamine intake was 228 mug/person/day, and meat products were the main source (110 mug/person/day). Riboflavin intake was 136 mug/person/day, with both beef and meat products as the main contributors (40 mug/person/day). Niacin intake was 7.53 mg/person/day, and poultry was the main source (2.28 mg/person/day). Meat and meat products were a valuable source of micronutrients, supplying 47, 48, and 24% of zinc, niacin, and thiamin daily requirements, respectively, and over 10% of iron, copper, selenium, and riboflavin daily average requirement values of the italian RDAs calculated for the population involved in the survey (INN-CA study).