bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Fatty Acid Profile in Plasma Phospholipids in Women from Granada (southern Spain) and Malmö (southern Sweden)
Authors: Chajès Véronique , Elmståhl Solve , Martinez-Garcia Carmen , Van Kappel Anne Linda , Bianchini Franca , Kaaks Rudolf , Riboli Elio
Published: January 2006

We conducted a first pilot study on healthy women living in two countries with different dietary habits, Granada in the south of Spain and Malmö in the south of Sweden, in order to compare their levels of plasma phospholipid fatty acids, and to examine the relationship between the differences in food consumption. This study is part of a pilot study which is nested in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition, a multi-centre prospective cohort study on diet, plasma concentrations of antioxidants and fatty acids, and markers of oxidative stress. Thirty-nine women in Granada and thirty-eight women in Malmö, aged 45–50 years (all pre-menopausal) were selected among the female participants in the cohorts from these two countries. Individual measurements of the women’s habitual diet were obtained by a food frequency questionnaire. 24-hour diet recalls were used for the standardised measurement of diet at group level. Plasma phospholipid fatty acid composition was determined by capillary gas chromatography. We found a different fatty acid profile in plasma between the two populations, with higher mean levels of palmitic acid (16:0), palmitoleic acid (16:1) (n-7), oleic acid (18:1), alpha-linolenic acid (18:3) (n-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5) (n-3), and lower mean levels of stearic acid (18:0) in Malmö compared to Granada. Women in Malmö consumed more meat, alcoholic beverages and sugar, and less fish and shellfish than women in Granada. We conclude that the fatty acid composition in plasma phospholipids is different between women from the two European centres. For polyunsaturated fatty acids, differences were observed for (n-3) fatty acids. In relation to these differences, we observed that specific food intakes, particularly meat and fish, varied between the two centres.
Effect of alpha-Tocopherol on Hepatocarcinogenesis in Transforming Growth Factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) Transgenic Mice Treated with Diethylnitrosamine
Authors: Kakizaki Satoru , Takagi Hitoshi , Fukusato Toshio , Toyoda Mitsuo , Horiguchi Norio , Sato Ken , Takayama Hisashi , Nagamine Takeaki , Mori Masatomo
Published: January 2006

To examine the potentially chemopreventive effects of alpha-tocopherol on hepatocarcinogenesis, we fed the transgenic mice line MT42, which overexpresses transforming growth factor-a (TGF-alpha) and which has been established as having a high incidence of liver tumor, with different concentrations of alpha-tocopherol and examined the hepatic tumorigenesis of these mice. At 3 weeks of age, MT42 male mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of diethylnitrosamine (DEN), 5 mg/kg body weight, to initiate the formation of liver tumors. The mice were divided into three groups: group A, control diet (20 mg/kg of alpha-tocopherylacetate); group B, deficient diet (less than 1 mg/kg); group C, supplemented diet (500 mg/kg). Neoplastic change was determined at 40 weeks of age. The incidence of adenomas (p < 0.05), the maximum tumor size (p < 0.01), the mean relative liver weight (p < 0.01), and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labeling indices of the non-tumor sites (p < 0.01) of group B were significantly higher than those of group C. No toxic effects of alpha-tocopherol were found. Alpha-tocopherol-deficient diet accelerated the hepatocarcinogenesis of TGF-alpha transgenic mice treated with DEN. At best, these data demonstrate that alpha-tocopherol-deficiency is not beneficial for prevention of hepatocarcinogenesis in this model. Alpha-tocopherol may be useful for the chemoprevention for liver cancer.
Vitamin D Insufficiency in Japanese Female College Students: a Preliminary Report
Authors: Nakamura Kazutoshi , Nashimoto Mitsue , Tsuchiya Yasuo , Obata Atsuko , Miyanishi Kunio , Yamamoto Masaharu
Published: January 2006

Vitamin D insufficiency, a risk factor for osteoporosis, has been well investigated in elderly women worldwide, but little information has been available for younger women. This study aimed to determine serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels in Japanese female college students, and to test whether there is an association between 25(OH)D and bone strength. Subjects were 77 Japanese female junior college students aged 19–24 years. Serum 25(OH)D was measured with high performance liquid chromatography. Bone strength of the calcaneus was evaluated using the osteo sono-assessment index (OSI), a combined index reflecting the bone mass, bone architecture, and elasticity, as measured by quantitative ultrasound densitometry (AOS-100, Aloka). The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 34.2 nmol/L (SD ± 12.1). The proportion of subjects with 25(OH)D less than 30 nmol/L, a cut-off value for vitamin D insufficiency, was 31/77 (40.3%). Simple linear regression analysis showed that there was a significant linear relationship between 25(OH)D and OSI (R2 = 0.098, p = 0.0069). The association held even after adjusting for weight (partial R2 = 0.098, p = 0.0023). Body weight was also a significant predictor of OSI (partial R2 = 0.105, p = 0.0034). These results suggest that vitamin D insufficiency may be prevalent in healthy young women. Moreover, low levels of 25(OH)D in young women may adversely affect bone strength. An additional, newly designed epidemiological study with a sufficient sample size is needed to confirm the present findings.
Acute and Chronic Toxicity Study of Fish Oil and Garlic Combination
Authors: Morcos N. C. , Camilo Kim
Published: January 2006

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the acute and chronic toxicology of oral intake of fish oil (omega-3 fatty acid) and garlic combination food supplements. These supplements were proven to have beneficial effects on the lipid profile. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the potential long-term effects of fish oil and garlic combination supplements on the biochemistry of organ structure and function. The hypothesis to be tested was that acute and chronic high-dose supplements of fish oil and garlic may not adversely affect organ histology but may influence certain metabolic activities. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was carried out using 28 Sprague Dawley rats separated into a placebo group (16 rats) and a supplement group (12 rats). The supplement group received the ingredients in chow inserts at a dosage that was equivalent to three times the maximum safe daily dosage for fish oil and the usual daily dosage for garlic (the maximum safe daily dosage recommended by the United States Food And Drug Administration for a 70-kg human is a total of 3 g/day intake of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids from conventional and dietary sources. The usual daily garlic usage is garlic powder = 1200 mg). The study was conducted over a period of 12 months with evaluations performed at baseline, 2 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Results confirm the expected acute triglyceride, total cholesterol and LDL suppression at these higher dosages in the supplement group. Acutely and chronically, there were no differences in external appearance, level of activity, daily food consumption, blood cell count, kidney function, thyroid function, prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial prothrombin time (PTT), which remained within normal ranges in the supplement group. Organ histology remained unchanged. Although during the chronic toxicity period the triglyceride and LDL suppression persisted, it was noted that total cholesterol and HDL levels increased. The increase in cholesterol and HDL in the supplement group during chronic toxicity periods is simultaneous with loss of suppression of plasma levels of other liver function marker enzymes, ALT and AST, which are not involved in cholesterol synthesis. This possibly suggests that other liver enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis, such as HMG-co A reductase, follow a similar escape from suppression.
Risk of Inadequate Intakes of Vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, Folate, Iron and Calcium in the Spanish Population Aged 4 to 18
Authors: Serra-Majem Lluís , Ribas Lourdes , Ngo Joy , Aranceta Javier , Garaulet Marta , Carazo Emilia , Mataix José , Pérez-Rodrigo Carmen , Quemada Miren , Tojo Rafael , Vázquez Clotilde
Published: January 2006

A meta-analysis of the most representative Spanish nutrition studies was carried out to identify inadequate intakes of vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, folate, iron, and calcium in children aged 4 to 18. Information on vegetable, fruit and fruit juice/beverage intake was also solicited. Data drawn from the selected studies yielded a total of 6540 children and adolescents in eight geographical areas. The sample was stratified by age (children: 4 to 14 years old and adolescents: 13–18 years old) and sex. Inadequate intakes (below two-thirds of the recommended values) were notable in children for vitamin E, vitamin C, and vitamin A and in girls, iron. In adolescents, low intakes were especially marked for vitamin E and vitamin A, and in girls, calcium, folate, and iron. Adolescents consumed more vegetables, fruit juice, and fruit drinks whereas children had higher fruit intakes. Regional differences in consumption were also detected. Strategies for improving nutrient intake in these vulnerable populations are discussed.
Effect of Dietary Cholesterol and Fat Levels on Lipid Peroxidation and the Activities of Antioxidant Enzymes in Rats
Authors: Lu Yi-Fa , Chiang Chia-Feng
Published: January 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary fat levels, with or without cholesterol, on lipid peroxidation and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in rats. Thirty-two Wistar rats aged 4 weeks were divided into 4 groups and fed high (20%; HF) or low (5%; LF) fat, with or without l% cholesterol, for 6 weeks. Cholesterol feeding resulted in significantly higher concentrations of serum cholesterol, but lowered serum triacylglycerol levels. Cholesterol feeding also led to markedly decreased levels of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lower activities of hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) when compared with cholesterol-free counterparts in both HF and LF diets. On the other hand, rats fed high-fat diets showed increased serum and liver TBARS, but decreased hepatic GSH-Px, SOD, and G6PDH activities. Hepatic catalase activity was lower in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets, but higher in rats fed high-fat diets, and interaction existed between cholesterol and fat feeding. These results suggested that dietary cholesterol might delay lipid peroxidation and decrease the activities of the hepatic antioxidant enzymes. The degree of lipid peroxidation was also influenced by dietary fat levels.
Iron Status influences the Efficacy of Iodine Prophylaxis in Goitrous Children in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Zimmermann Michael B.
Published: January 2006

In the developing countries of Africa, many children are at high risk for both goiter and iron-deficiency anemia (IDA). Because iron (Fe) deficiency can have adverse effects on thyroid metabolism, Fe deficiency may influence response to supplemental iodine in areas of endemic goiter. Therefore, our aims were to determine: 1) if goitrous children also suffering from IDA could respond to oral iodine supplementation; and 2) if Fe supplementation in goitrous children with IDA would improve their response to oral iodized oil and iodized salt. First, we compared the efficacy of oral iodized oil in two groups of goitrous children: a nonanemic group vs. an IDA group. The therapeutic response to iodized oil was impaired in the goitrous children with IDA. Second, an open trial of Fe treatment in goitrous children with IDA improved their response to oral iodized oil. Finally, in a randomized double-blind trial, goitrous, Fe-deficient children consuming iodized salt were given Fe supplementation or placebo. Fe supplementation improved the efficacy of the iodized salt. In these studies, both anatomic (thyroid size) and biochemical (TSH, T4) measures indicated that iodine significantly improved thyroid function in the nonanemic children compared to the Fe deficient children. Iodine was less efficacious in children with lower Hb at baseline and in those with a poorer response to Fe. The data suggest that a high prevalence of IDA among children in areas of endemic goiter may reduce the effectiveness of iodine prophylaxis.
A healthy Diet rich in Carotenoids is effective in Maintaining normal Blood Carotenoid Levels during the Daily use of Plant Sterol-enriched Spreads
Authors: Ntanios Fady Y. , Duchateau Guus S. M. J. E.
Published: January 2006

Blood cholesterol levels are affected by diet and in particular by the type and amount of fat intake. In recent years, vegetable oil spreads containing plant sterols/stanols (as their fatty acid esters) have been developed. Numerous clinical trials on spreads with added plant sterols/stanols have shown that they have much greater cholesterol-lowering properties than conventional vegetable oil spreads. Plant sterols decrease both dietary and biliary cholesterol absorption in the small intestine, with a consequential increase in excretion of cholesterol. It is also recognized that plant sterol/stanol-enriched, cholesterol-lowering spreads, if consumed regularly, may induce a 10–20% decrease in plasma carotenoids, adjusted for changes in plasma lipids. A 10–20% decrease in plasma carotenoids falls well within the seasonal variation observed in individuals. Our current understanding of the physiological functions of carotenoids does not indicate any health risk associated with the slight decrease in their blood levels due to the intake of plant sterol/stanol. The questions that have been raised, though, are how plant sterols/stanols affect plasma carotenoid levels, and in addition, what quantity of fruits and vegetables (the richest dietary sources of carotenoids) would have to be consumed to improve plasma carotenoid levels? The current mini-review covers the cholesterol-lowering effect of plant sterols, their mechanisms of action and effect on blood carotenoids, and concludes with the potential heath benefits of daily intake of plant sterol-enriched spreads.
Folate Bioavailability and Health
Authors: Molloy Anne M.
Published: January 2006

The vitamin folate has been largely responsible for a fundamental shift in our perception of the role of vitamins in maintaining health. Ten years ago, two independent clinical trials showed that supplementing a woman’s diet with folic acid before and during early pregnancy reduced the prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) by more than 70%. A remarkable aspect was that folic acid supplementation was not correcting a clinical deficiency in most of these women. It was later shown that the risk of having an NTD-affected birth was negatively associated with maternal red cell folate status, and the level of risk varied throughout the normal range, suggesting an interaction of genetic factors with folate nutritional status. It now appears that an insufficient folate status might contribute to risk of developing a variety of medical conditions throughout an individual’s lifetime, from certain congenital malformations and poor pregnancy outcomes to cardiovascular disease, some malignancies, and neurological dysfunction of the elderly. Thus, an alternative view of folate nutrition has emerged. This view goes beyond the idea of a dietary requirement to prevent signs and symptoms of clinical deficiency towards one of achieving an optimal status to reduce risk of certain chronic diseases, and includes the concept that an individual’s genetic make-up may substantially affect the vitamin status that they can achieve without supplements or fortification.
Biotechnology: A Solution for Improving Nutrient Bioavailability
Authors: King Janet C.
Published: January 2006

Biotechnology strategies are now available to improve the amount and availability of nutrients in plant crops. Those strategies include simple plant selection for varieties with high nutrient density in the seeds, cross-breeding for incorporating a desired trait within a plant, and genetic engineering to manipulate the nutrient content of the plant. In plant cross-breeding, all genes of the parent plants are combined and the progeny have both desirable and undesirable traits. To eliminate undesirable traits, plant breeders «back-cross» the new plant varieties with other plants over several generations. This technique, called hybridization, has been used to create varieties of low-phytate corn, barley, and rice. Using the techniques of genetic engineering, the gene(s) encoding for a desired trait(s) in a plant are introduced in a precise and controlled manner within a relatively short period of time. Golden rice, containing carotenoids, and rice with higher amounts of iron, are two examples of genetically engineered plants for improved nutrition. Genetic engineering has tremendous potential for revolutionizing nutrition. However, public concerns regarding safety, appearance, and ethics must be overcome before these products can be effectively introduced into the food supply.
Effects of a Partially Hydrolyzed Curdlan on Serum and Hepatic Cholesterol Concentration, and Cecal Fermentation in Rats
Authors: Shimizu Jun , Oka Masahide , Kudoh Keita , Wada Masahiro , Takita Toshichika , Innami Satoshi , Tadokoro Tadahiro , Maekawa Akio
Published: January 2006

A significant reduction was observed for serum and hepatic cholesterol concentrations in the rats fed diet containing a 5% partially hydrolyzed curdlan (PHCD), whereas only the hepatic cholesterol concentration was decreased in the curdlan (CD)-fed rats. The cecal contents in the CD group contained a significantly larger amount of short-chain fatty acids, but not those in the PHCD group. CD, but not PHCD, significantly increased the population of cecal bifidobacteria. From the in vitro fermentation test with cecal contents from cellulose powder (CP) and CD-fed rats, PHCD proved to be easily fermented by both cecal contents; incidentally CD was more susceptible to the cecal contents from CD-fed rats than to those from CP-fed rats. These results suggest that PHCD is involved in the modulation of lipid metabolism and intestinal microflora through a different manner from the native CD in rats.
Dose-Response Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid Ethyl Ester on Maze Behavior and Brain Fatty Acid Composition in Adult Mice
Authors: Lim Sun-Young , Suzuki Hiramitsu
Published: January 2006

The dose-response effect of dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3) ethyl ester (EE) on maze-learning ability in mice was studied. Male Crj:CD-1 mice aged three months were fed a) a diet containing 5 g palm oil/100 g diet (control group); b) a diet containing 0.5 g DHA ethyl ester/100 g diet plus 4.5 g palm oil/100g diet (DHA-EE 0.5% group); c) a diet containing 1g DHA ethyl ester/100 g diet plus 4g palm oil/100 g diet (DHA-EE 1% group); d) a diet containing 2 g DHA ethyl ester/100 g diet plus 3 g palm oil/100 g diet (DHA-EE 2% group) for four months. Maze-learning ability was assessed three months after the start of the experiment. The time required to reach the maze exit and the number of times that a mouse strayed into blind alleys in the maze were measured in three trials, performed every four days. In trial 1, the DHA-EE 0.5%, 1% and 2% groups required less (p < 0.05) time to reach the maze exit, and the DHA-EE 2% group strayed (p < 0.05) into blind alleys fewer times than the control group. In trial 3 performed four days after the second trial, the DHA-EE 2% group needed less (p < 0.05) time to find the exit and spent a fewer (p < 0.05) number of times in blind alleys than did the control group. In the total lipids of plasma and brain of mice fed DHA, increasing intakes of DHA resulted in an increase in DHA levels, with a corresponding decrease in arachidonic acid (20:4 n-6). Improved maze-learning ability in mice fed DHA-EE 2% was associated with higher DHA levels in brain. Our results suggest that there are no linear dose-response effects of DHA on maze-learning ability, however, the intake of DHA-EE 2% diet improves learning ability in adult mice as demonstrated by maze performance.
Indirect Measurement of the Production of Plasma Triacylglycerols by Horses Given a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Geelen Suzanne , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan Marianne , Beynen Anton
Published: January 2006

The hypothesis tested was that the feeding of extra fat to horses would raise the production of plasma triacylglycerols (TAG). To measure TAG secretion, the indirect Triton method was used. Six adult horses were given a low-fat control or a high-fat diet according to a crossover design. In keeping with our earlier work, the high-fat diet lowered fasting plasma TAG concentrations by an average of 42% and raised post-heparin total lipoprotein lipase activity by 79%. The rate of increase in plasma TAG concentration after Triton administration was 49% lower when the horses were fed the high-fat diet instead of the low-fat control diet. Thus, the hypothesis is rejected. It is suggested that the dose of Triton used in the study might have been too low to fully depress lipoprotein lipase activity, leading to an outcome of the study that was opposite to that expected.
Quercetin Dihydrate and Gallate Supplements Lower Plasma and Hepatic Lipids and Change Activities of Hepatic Antioxidant Enzymes in High Cholesterol-Fed Rats
Authors: Bok Song-Hae , Park Sun-Young , Park Yong Bok , Lee Mi-Kyung , Jeon Seon-Min , Jeong Tae-Sook , Choi Myung-Sook
Published: January 2006

This study was designed to test the lipid-lowering and antioxidant activity of two bioflavonoids, quercetin dihydrate and gallate. Four groups of rats were given a semisynthetic diet containing 10 g cholesterol/kg for six weeks. The control group received only a high-cholesterol diet, whereas the other three groups received a diet including 1 g lovastatin, 1 g quercetin dihydrate, or 1 g gallate/kg. The quercetin dihydrate and gallate supplements both significantly lowered the plasma lipid and hepatic cholesterol levels compared to those of the control. The hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase activity was significantly lowered by the quercetin dihydrate when compared to the other groups, while the hepatic acyl CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) activity was only significantly higher in the control group. The overall potential for antioxidant protection was significantly enhanced by the quercetin dihydrate and gallate supplements through lowering the plasma and hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels and increasing the hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in high-cholesterol-fed rats. These results suggest that the supplementation of quercetin dihydrate and gallate promotes an increase in fecal sterols, which in turn leads to a decreased absorption of dietary cholesterol as well as lower plasma and hepatic cholesterol.
Vitamin C, E and A Levels in Maternal and Fetal Blood for Czech and Gypsy Ethnic Groups in the Czech Republic
Authors: Dejmek Jan , Ginter Emil , Solansky Ivo , Podrazilová Katerina , Stávková Zdena , Benes Ivan , Srám Radim
Published: January 2006

Vitamin C, E and A levels in maternal and cord blood sera were examined at delivery in two districts of the Czech Republic. Information on personal and social characteristics, health, ethnicity, and lifestyle was also collected. A highly significant correlation between ascorbate levels in maternal and cord blood was found. Vitamin C levels in cord blood were about 1.7 times those in maternal blood. This ratio was much higher for mothers deficient in vitamin C: it was about 3 for deficient nonsmokers and as high as 5 for deficient mothers who smoked cigarettes (p < 0.01). This finding may suggest a compensatory mechanism in fetuses that are endangered by oxidative stress. The mean maternal blood levels of vitamin A and E were higher than in fetal blood (both p < 0.0001). The mean fetal/maternal ratios were 0.7 for vitamin A and 0.2 for vitamin E levels; these ratios were considerably higher for mothers deficient in a particular vitamin as compared with those for well-nourished mothers. Ascorbate levels were associated with maternal education and smoking. Significantly decreased vitamin C levels were observed in Gypsy mothers and their babies; this may be attributed to unfavorable diet and smoking habits: about 78% of Gypsy mothers admitted smoking as compared with 31% of Czech mothers.
Synthesis of a Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody to the Human Sodium-Dependent Multivitamin Transporter
Authors: Griffin Jacob , Stanley Steven , Zempleni Janos
Published: January 2006

In mammalian cells, biotin is covalently attached to carboxylases and histones and is required for cell proliferation and function. Cellular uptake of biotin (as well as pantothenic acid and lipoic acid) is mediated by the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter, SMVT. Studies of cellular biotin homeostasis have been hampered by the lack of an antibody to SMVT. Here, we describe the synthesis of a rabbit polyclonal antibody to human SMVT. Using this antibody, SMVT has been identified in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, Caco-2 cells, and HepG2 cells. Moreover, we observed that cells respond to proliferation with increased synthesis of SMVT.
Effect of Citric Pectin on beta-Carotene Bioavailability in Rats
Authors: Zanutto Márcia , Jordão Júnior Alceu , Meirelles Mônica , Fávaro Rosa , Vannucchi Hélio
Published: January 2006

The effect of citric pectin on the bioavailability of synthetic beta-carotene was studied. Thirty Wistar rats were used, ten animals were sacrificed at the beginning of the experiment and remaining animals were divided into two groups and received the following diets for 30 days: control group (CG) – 24 mg beta-carotene/g diet + 0% citric pectin; experimental group (EG) – 24 mugbeta-carotene/g diet + 7% citric pectin. Plasma and liver beta-carotene, vitamin A, and retinyl palmitate concentrations were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Plasma retinol concentration was 1.42 ± 0.36 mumol/L for CG and 1.10 ± 0.24 mumol/L for EG (p = 0.1), and plasma beta-carotene concentration was 0.20 ± 2.51 mumol/L for CG and 0.07 ± 0.04 µumol/L for EG (p = 0.01). Only traces of retinyl palmitate were detected in CG and none in EG. Retinol did not differ significantly between groups CG and EG, while a significantly higher beta-carotene concentration was observed for CG. Liver concentrations of retinol (CG: 4.90 ± 2.51 µug/g; EG: 2.68 ± 1.12 µug/g), beta-carotene (CG: 0.98 ± 0.28 µug/g; EG: 0.11 ± 0.06 µug/g), and retinyl palmitate (CG: 95.47 ± 45.13 µug/g, EG: 37.01 ± 17.20 µug/g) differed significantly between groups (p < 0.05), with a lower concentration being observed for EG. We conclude that 7% citric pectin in the rat diet decreases the bioavailability of synthetic beta-carotene, reducing the liver reserves of vitamin A and beta-carotene.
Additive Action of Vitamins C and E against Hydrocortisone-Induced Genotoxicity in Human Lymphocyte Chromosomes
Authors: Ahmad Sultan , Hoda Afsahul , Afzal Mohammad
Published: January 2006

In earlier reports, hydrocortisone administration to human lymphocytes in culture was shown to cause chromosomal aberrations and increased sister chromatid exchanges. With a view to study the ameliorative action of some antioxidants against this effect, vitamins C and E were used separately and in combination along with hydrocortisone treatment, at different dosage and for different durations, on human lymphocyte cultures. The levels of chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges were lowered, suggesting a protective role of vitamins against genotoxic damage. Administration of vitamins C and E combined appeared to be more effective in preventing chromosomal damage than separate administration, demonstrating the additive action of these vitamins against steroid-induced genotoxicity.
Effects of Subcutaneously Injected Graded Doses of All-Trans Retinoic Acid and All-Trans Retinoyl beta-Glucuronide on the Outcome of Pregnancy in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Ueltschy Amanda , Gunning Desiree , Barua Arun , Olson James
Published: January 2006

The effects of single subcutaneous injections (sc) of graded doses (20, 40, 80, 160, 320, and 480 mumol/kg body weight (BW) of all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and all-trans retinoyl beta-glucuronide (RAG) on day 8.5 of gestation on the outcome of pregnancy in Sprague-Dawley rats was studied. At dose levels of 20, 40, and 80 mumol/kg BW, neither RA nor RAG showed any adverse maternal or fetal effects. However, at dose levels of 160, 320, and 480 mumol/kg, RA was found to be much more toxic than RAG to both mother and fetus. Fetuses of animals receiving a 160 mumol/ kg BW dose of RA were significantly reduced in weight and length, while animals receiving the same dose of RAG had fetuses of normal size. RA doses of 320 and 480 mumol/ kg BW resulted in symptoms of maternal toxicity and even death. In contrast, RAG at these high levels produced no signs of maternal toxicity. RAG doses of 320 and 480 mumol/ kg BW were also less toxic to fetuses. RA doses of 320 mumol/kg BW resulted in only 8% live births, while animals treated with an equivalent amount of RAG experienced 95% live births. Animals receiving a dose of 480 mumol/kg BW of RA had no live births, but similar doses of RAG resulted in 28% live births and pups of normal size.
Serum Antioxidants and Subsequent Mortality Rates of All Causes or Cancer among Rural Japanese Inhabitants
Authors: Ito Yoshinori , Suzuki Koji , Suzuki Sadao , Sasaki Ryuichiro , Otani Motohiko , Aoki Kunio
Published: January 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a relationship exists between mortality rates and serum antioxidant levels among Japanese inhabitants. The follow-up subjects, who participated in comprehensive health examinations, consisted of 2444 inhabitants (949 males and 1495 females) of a rural area in Hokkaido, Japan. Between 1991 and December 2000, 146 subjects (94 males and 52 females) died, with cancer accounting for 76 of these deaths (48 males and 28 females). Serum samples at fasting were collected at entry into the study, and serum levels of beta- and alpha-carotenes, lycopene, beta-cryptoxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin/lutein, tocopherols, and retinol were measured separately by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The statistical analyses were conducted using the Cox proportional hazard model. Age- and gender-adjusted hazard ratios of the groups with high serum levels of lycopene, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin/lutein, and total carotenoids compared to those with low serum levels were 0.36 (95% C.I: 0.19–0.69), 0.53 (0.29–0.95), 0.73 (0.43–1.25), and 0.52 (0.30–0.92) for cancers of all sites, and 0.44 (95% C.I: 0.28–0.69), 0.59 (0.39–0.90), 0.61 (0.40–0.93), and 0.50 (0.33–0.76) for all causes, respectively. Similar results were found after adjusting for gender, age, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and serum levels of total cholesterol and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activity. Moreover, after excluding mortality within the first three years of follow-up, the hazard ratios of subjects with high serum levels of lycopene, total carotenes, and total carotenoids were significantly and inversely associated with subsequent mortality from all causes and cancers of all sites after adjusting for gender, age, and serum levels of total cholesterol, alpha-tocopherol, and retinol. These results suggest that high serum levels of antioxidants, such as lycopene, beta-carotene and zeaxanthin/lutein, play roles in preventing death from cancer and from all causes. However, high serum levels of tocopherols and retinol did not demonstrate clear associations with either low mortality rates from all causes or cancer of all sites.
Experience with Ferrous Bis-Glycine Chelate as an Iron Fortificant in Milk
Authors: Osman Ali Karrar , Al-Othaimeen Abdulaziz
Published: January 2006

The objective of this study was to test whether milk is an appropriate vehicle for fortification with ferrous bis-glycine chelate and whether it has any effect on milk’s organoleptic properties. In addition, the study examined the children’s acceptability and tolerance of the fortifying agent. One hundred thirty-one children aged 6–14 years (79 males and 52 females) from two dormitories of the Ministry of Social Welfare in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia participated in this study. The results of this trial showed that milk fortified with this iron chelate has unaltered organoleptic properties and is well accepted by the children. Hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were measured before and after consuming one liter of milk fortified with 30 mg ferrous bis-glycine chelate per liter (6 mg elemental iron per liter) per day, for a period of three months. The prevalence of anemia (Hb < 12 g/dL) significantly dropped from 25.3 to 5.0%, and 23.0 to 9.6%, among boys and girls respectively. The prevalence of low serum ferritin values among boys dropped from 8.8 to 5.9% and significantly from 21.1 to 12.1% among girls. No control group was included in this study. It is concluded that ferrous bis-glycine chelate in milk does not alter milk’s organoleptic properties; furthermore, it improved hemoglobin and ferritin serum levels among anemic children, suggesting milk as an appropriate vehicle for fortification with this chelate.
Calcium Intake in Relation to Diet and Health Indicators in Cretan Primary and High School Pupils, Greece
Authors: Moschandreas Joanna , Kafatos Anthony
Published: January 2006

In recent years, the issue of dietary calcium (Ca) requirements is said to have caused more controversy than requirements for any other nutrient. There is little published data on dietary Ca intake levels in Greek children and relationships with other health indicators. Pupils at twenty primary and ten high schools in Crete, Greece, were examined as part of a wider study of the dietary habits and health status of children and adolescents. A total of 1054 children participated: 583 9- to12-year-olds and 471 14- to 16-year-olds. “High” and “low” Ca intake in each age group was defined using upper and lower Ca intake quartiles for each sex. Multiple regression techniques were used to examine associations after adjustment for energy intake. No statistical association was observed between calcium intake and serum lipoproteins, anthropometric measurements, or physical activity status. Energy-adjusted Ca intakes were positively associated with intakes of protein, saturated fatty acid (SFA), magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin A, and vitamin B2, whereas higher Ca intakes were associated with lower monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and omega-6 fatty acid intakes. In both age groups, pupils with high Ca intake had higher intakes of the food groups “milk and milk products” and “grains and grain products” than those with low Ca intake, although even “high” Ca intake in older female Cretan pupils (with a 75th percentile cut-off of 999 mg/day) may not be at adequate levels.
Goiter Prevalence, Urinary Iodine Excretion, Thyroid Function and Anti-Thyroid Antibodies after 12 Years of Salt Iodization in Shahriar, Iran
Authors: Azizi Fereidoun , Navai Lida , Fattahi Farid
Published: January 2006

Objective: In a previous study in 1983, goiter was found to be endemic in Shahriar, Iran. Iodized salt has been distributed in the region for the past 12 years, and the present study was performed to examine the effect of iodide supplementation on indicators of iodine deficiency (IDD) and thyroid antibodies. Design & Methods: A total of 3164 people, 58% women and 42% men, were selected by random sampling from the Shahriar area. Goiter was staged according to World Health Organization guidelines. Urinary iodine was measured by a digestion method, and thyroid hormone measurements were done by radioimmunoassay. The results were compared with those of 1983. Results: Goiter prevalence before and after iodine supplementation was 50 and 40% in men, 70 and 51% in women, and 60 and 47% in the whole community, respectively (p < 0.001). A decrease in the prevalence of goiter was observed especially in younger individuals. The mean urinary iodine excretion was 7.6 and 18.5 mug/dL, before and after iodine supplementation. In 1983, the urinary iodine in 47.5% of the population studied was between 2 to 5 mug/dL, while in 1995, 65% of the population studied had urinary iodine between 10 to 25 mug/dL, 12 years after iodine supplementation. Mean serum T4, T3, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were normal before and after intervention. There was no significant change in occurrence of positive antibodies, or of hypo-and hyperthyroidism, following iodine supplementation. Conclusion: The result of this study shows that the use of iodized salt causes an increase in excreted urinary iodine and a decrease in the prevalence of thyroid goiter, especially in younger age groups,. Consumption of iodized salt with 40 parts per million (ppm) iodine has not caused increased prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in this area.
Dose-Responsive Alteration in Hepatic Lipid Peroxidation and Retinol Metabolism with Increasing Dietary beta-Carotene in Iron Deficient Rats
Authors: Ikeda Ryouko , Uehara Mariko , Takasaki Misao , Chiba Hiroshige , Masuyama Ritsuko , Furusho Tadasu , Suzuki Kazuharu
Published: January 2006

Phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PCOOH) levels are increased in the iron-deficient rat liver. We investigated the antioxidative effect of dietary beta-carotene and altered retinol metabolism in iron-deficient rats. Experiment 1: Male Wistar-strain rats were divided into six groups and fed a control diet, an iron-deficient diet, and iron-deficient diets with four different levels of dietary beta-carotene. The PCOOH concentration in the iron-deficient rat liver was decreased by supplementation with dietary beta-carotene. However, the beta-carotene dose response was not related to antioxidative potency. Hepatic and plasma beta-carotene concentrations were increased by iron deficiency. The hepatic retinol concentration was increased while the plasma retinol concentration was decreased in iron-deficient rats. Experiment 2: Male Wistar-strain rats were divided into two groups, with one group receiving a control diet with beta-carotene and the other an iron-deficient diet with beta-carotene. Intestinal iron was decreased and intestinal beta-carotene was unchanged in iron-deficient rats. The intestinal beta-carotene conversion ratio and beta-carotene cleavage enzyme activity were decreased in iron-deficient rats. Dietary beta-carotene played the role of an antioxidant in hepatic lipid peroxidation in the iron-deficient state, but there was no dose dependency. Moreover, intestinal beta-carotene cleavage and hepatic retinol release appear to be altered in iron-deficient rats.
Effects of Walnut Consumption as Part of a Low-Fat, Low-Cholesterol Diet on Serum Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Morgan John , Horton Kirsten , Reese Dana , Carey Christina , Walker Kalen , Capuzzi David
Published: January 2006

Serum components, such as lipoproteins, coagulation factors (factor VII, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), fibrinogen), and homocysteine have been associated with cardiovascular disease. Dietary intervention with a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet has favorably influenced cardiovascular disease and certain food, specifically the consumption of nuts, has been associated with reduced cardiovascular risks. The effects of walnuts, as part of a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, on serum cardiovascular risk factors were determined. Sixty-seven (67) outpatients with borderline high total cholesterol following a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet for six weeks before being randomly assigned to continue the diet or have 64 grams/day of walnuts in conjunction with the diet. After six weeks, the patients’ diets were switched. Therefore, all patients consumed 64 grams/day of walnuts for six weeks during part of the trial as part of a low-fat, low cholesterol diet. Serum lipids demonstrated a significant reduction in triacyglycerols and favorable trend with decreases in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and a slight increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. No statistical effects on homocysteine or the coagulation factors were observed. However, there was a slight favorable trend for tPA and PAI-1. This study demonstrated that walnuts, when consumed as part of a low fat, low-cholesterol diet, have a beneficial effect on serum cardiovascular risk factors. However, these changes may not explain all of the beneficial effects that walnut consumption has on cardiovascular disease.
Vitamins A and E in Serum in Relation to Weight and Lung Function in Patients with Advanced Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Førli Liv , Pedersen Jan , Bjørtuft Øystein , Blomhoff Rune , Kofstad Johan , Boe Jacob
Published: January 2006

The objective of the study was to examine whether serum concentrations of retinol (vitamin A) and alpha-, beta-, and gamma-tocopherols (vitamin E) are affected by underweight and weight gain. The analysis was carried out in underweight (n = 42, of whom 24 had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and normal-weight (n = 29, of whom 16 had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) candidates for lung transplantation before and after dietary intervention for weight gain. In all the patients, serum concentrations of retinol at baseline and changes in retinol were positively associated with body mass index (unstandardized regression coefficient, b = 0.03; p = 0.05) and an increase in weight (b = 0.09, p = 0.02) after dietary intervention, respectively. At baseline, serum retinol concentrations were positively correlated with forced vital capacity (b = 0.24, p < 0.05) and forced expiratory volume in one second (b = 0.17, p < 0.05). In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tocopherols were higher in the underweight patients than in the normal-weight ones, while it was an opposite tendency in patients with other lung diseases. Only in patients with lung diseases other than COPD was there found a positive association between tocopherols and lung gas diffusion. In patients with other diagnoses compared with patients with COPD, a positive change in serum tocopherol status after weight gain was suggested.
Erythrocyte Glutathione Reductase Activity and Riboflavin Nutritional Status in Early-Weaned Piglets
Authors: Giguère  , Girard  , Matte
Published: January 2006

The reliability of erythrocyte glutathione reductase activity (EGRAC) as an indicator of riboflavin (vitamin B2) status was determined in 36 piglets weaned at two weeks of age. Total B2 metabolites determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in plasma, red blood cells, and liver were used as reference values. There was no correlation between EGRAC values and total B2 metabolites either in circulation (r < 0.15, p > 0.08) or in liver (r < 0.01, p > 0.95). EGRAC does not appear to be a reliable biochemical indicator of vitamin B2 status in the pig.
Rapid HPLC Method for Measurement of Vitamin D3 and 25(OH)D3 in Blood Plasma
Authors: Olkowski A. A. , Aranda-Osorio G. , McKinnon J.
Published: January 2006

The present work describes a novel, simplified high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for evaluation of vitamin D3 and its 25-hydroxy metabolite in blood plasma. The retrieval of the analytes from the blood plasma matrix is based on a single-step extraction using acetonitrile. The method is specific, sensitive, and ensures good reproducibility. The recovery of the analytes, precision, and reproducibility obtained using the present approach gave results comparable to or better than more complex, laborious, and time-consuming procedures. This method is suitable for evaluation of the host’s vitamin D physiological status, as well as for rapid analysis of blood plasma samples in suspected cholecalciferol toxicity. With a significantly shortened time of analysis (10 minutes), the present method allows the possibility for processing of a large number of samples rapidly, efficiently, and at a low cost.
Serum Homocysteine, B12 and Folic Acid Concentration in Thai Overweight and Obese Subjects
Authors: Tungtrongchitr R. , Pongpaew P. , Tongboonchoo C. , Vudhivai N. , Changbumrung S. , Tungtrongchitr A. , Phonrat B. , Viroonudomphol D. , Pooudong S. , Schelp F. P.
Published: January 2006

This study investigated levels of serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin B62 and vitamin C, in 37 male and 112 female overweight and obese Thai volunteers (body mass index; BMI ≥ 25.00), and 23 male and 90 female normal-weight Thai volunteers, who came for a physical check-up at the Out-patient Department, General Practice Section, Rajvithi Hospital, Bangkok from March to October of 2000. Data included anthropometric measurements and waist/hip ratios. All anthropometric variables, except height, were significantly higher for the overweight subjects than for the normal subjects. Statistically significantly higher levels of serum homocysteine were found in the overweight subjects. Serum homocysteine concentrations in overweight and obese males were significantly higher than in overweight and obese females. Serum folic acid and vitamin C in the overweight and obese were found to be statistically significantly lower than in the control subjects. No statistically significant difference in vitamin B12 was found in the overweight and obese subjects compared with the normal control subjects. The medians of serum folic acid and vitamin C concentrations for the overweight and obese males were significantly lower than those of the overweight and obese females. A negative correlation was found between serum folic acid and homocysteine concentrations in all overweight and obese subjects. A significant negative correlation between serum folic acid and vitamin B6 was observed in both male and female overweight and obese subjects. The results of the investigation suggest that homocysteine levels in overweight and obese subjects seem to be caused by insufficient dietary folic acid intake and probably not by B12 deficiency.
Non-Nutritive Bioactive Food Constituents of Plants: Bioavailability of Flavonoids
Authors: Rasmussen  , Breinholt
Published: January 2006

Flavonoids are polyphenols widely distributed in the plant kingdom, and are present in fruits andvegetables regularly consumed by humans. In vitro metabolic studies of flavonoids in rat liver microsomes identified the 3’, 4’-dihydroxylated derivatives as the major metabolic endpoint. However, in vivo in rats almost none of this metabolite and only minor amounts of the 4’-monohydroxylated derivative was produced. Flavonoids with the 4’-monohydroxylated structure were generally not metabolised and were excreted unchanged in urine in higher amounts than other flavonoids investigated. It has for long been a controversy, whether flavonoids are absorbed as the intact glycoside or whether they have to be hydrolysed to the free aglycon prior to absorption. Recent data suggest that b-glucosidases and maybe also lactase phlorizin hydrolase (LPH) in the small intestine are capable of hydrolysing flavonoid glucosides and these compounds are thus taken up as the free aglycon and not as the intact glycosides. LC-MS analyses of 12 dietary flavonoids in human urine showed that no flavonoid glycosides were excreted, and that the citrus flavanones and phloretin are excreted in higher amounts than the flavonols. Furthermore, total flavonoid excretion may be a useful biomarker for habitual fruit and vegetable consumption.