Vitamin B12 as a potential compliance marker for fish intake

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the following four markers: vitamin B₁₂, selenium, vitamin D, and parvalbumin may be used as compliance markers for fish intake.

Methods

Blood samples from a randomized cross-over herring intervention study (n = 32) were analysed by HPLC and immunochemistry. The criteria were that plasma or serum concentrations of candidate compliance markers after the herring diet should increase significantly compared to starting concentrations. In addition, the reference meat diet should not yield an increase in plasma concentration of the candidate marker.

Results

Vitamin B₁₂ and selenium met the set criteria for indicating a correlation between the marker and fish intake with significant increases in serum concentrations at 8.9 % (p = 0.008) and 4.6 % (p = 0.02), respectively, after a 6-week herring intervention (5 meals a week). Parvalbumin and 25-hydroxy vitamin D₃ levels did not increase significantly after the herring interventions.

Conclusions

Vitamin B₁₂ may be suitable as a compliance marker for fish intake. Although selenium also met the criteria, the change in selenium serum concentrations was small compared to the change in vitamin B₁₂ levels.     

Prognostic value of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio and other inflammatory markers in malignant pleural mesothelioma

Objectives

Inflammation plays a role in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) prognosis and symptoms. We investigated the roles of the new and old inflammatory indexes and markers in MPM prognosis.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety-two MPM patients (167 male and 125 female) were included in this retrospective study. Demographic parameters were collected from the patients’ files. Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used for the analysis of prognosis.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 58.4 years. The mean survival time was 14.6 ± 13.0 months. Twenty-four potential prognostic factors associated with a poor outcome were calculated in the univariate analysis, and 16 potential prognostic factors were associated with a poor prognosis. These 16 potential prognostic factors were also analyzed in multivariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that increased age, stage 3–4 disease, the non-epithelial type, a low Karnofsky performance score, a high white blood cell count, and a low lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) were associated with a poor prognosis. The results of the multivariate analysis showed that a decreased LMR was associated with poor survival. Patients with LMR ≤2.6 had poor survival compared with those with LMR >2.6 (mean 9.6 vs. 17.0 months, respectively; p = 0.004).

Conclusions

LMR is an independent marker of prognosis in patients with MPM and is superior to the other inflammation-based markers. The inexpensive nature and easy reproducibility of the hemogram should encourage the use of the LMR in clinical practice.

     

Asbestos exposure and malignant lymphoma: a multicenter case–control study in Germany and Italy

Aims

To analyze the relationship between asbestos exposure and malignant lymphoma in a multicenter case–control study conducted in Germany and Italy according to a common core protocol.

Methods

Male and female patients with malignant lymphoma (n = 1,034) between 18 and 80 years of age were prospectively recruited in six study areas in Germany (Ludwigshafen/Upper Palatinate, Heidelberg/Rhine-Neckar-County, Würzburg/Lower Frankonia, Hamburg, Bielefeld/East Westphalia, and Munich) and in two study areas in Sardinia, Italy (Cagliari and Nuoro provinces). A total of 1,173 population control subjects were drawn from population registers. In a structured personal interview, we elicited a complete occupational history, including every occupational period that lasted at least 1 year. On the basis of job task-specific supplementary questionnaires, trained experts assessed the exposure to asbestos. As a measure of cumulative asbestos exposure on a time by intensity scale, fiber-years were calculated. 12 cases (1.2%) and 12 control subjects (1.0%) had a cumulative asbestos exposure of more than 2.6 fiber-years (highest exposure category according to the 90th percentile of exposed control subjects). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using unconditional logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex and study region. Patients with specific lymphoma sub-entities were additionally compared with the entire control group.

Results

We observed no statistically significant association between cumulative asbestos exposure and the risk of any lymphoma subtype. An elevated risk was found for the association between exposure to more than 2.6 fiber-years and multiple myeloma (OR = 6.0; 95% CI 1.4–25.1); however, numbers were small (n = 3 cases, all of them from Italy; n = 12 control subjects).

Conclusions

Our study does not support an association between asbestos exposure and risk of malignant lymphoma.     

Changes in mineral status are associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity in obese patients following l-arginine supplementation

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term influence of l-arginine intake on mineral concentration in patients with obesity and to assess the changes in lipid serum levels, fat content, and insulin resistance that result.

Methods

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was conducted. 88 obese patients were randomly assigned to receive either 9 g of l-arginine or placebo daily, for 6 months. At baseline and after 6 months, selected anthropometrical measurements and blood biochemical analyses were performed and mineral levels were assessed. To assess insulin sensitivity, the gold-standard euglycemic clamp methodology was used.

Results

We found that 6 months of l-arginine supplementation resulted in significant increases in insulin sensitivity (Δ1.1 mg/kg/min, P < 0.01) and zinc levels (Δ1.5 μmol/L, P < 0.001). Moreover, a positive correlation between the change in zinc concentration in serum and the change in insulin sensitivity was observed (R = 0.80, P < 0.01). In the group of patients treated with l-arginine, a negative correlation between the change in zinc concentration in serum and the change in body fat content was noted (R = ?0.38, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

l-Arginine supplementation affects zinc status in obese patients. One beneficial influence is related to the improvements in insulin sensitivity.     

Effects of l-arginine supplementation on blood flow, oxidative stress status and exercise responses in young adults with uncomplicated type I diabetes

Background and aims

Vascular disease is the principal cause of death and disability in patients with diabetes, and endothelial dysfunction seems to be the major cause in its pathogenesis. Since l-arginine levels are diminished in conditions such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, in this work we aimed to verify the effects of l-arginine supplementation (7 g/day) over the endothelial function and oxidative stress markers in young male adults with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes. We also investigated the influences of l-arginine administration on vascular/oxidative stress responses to an acute bout of exercise.

Methods

Ten young adult male subjects with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes and twenty matched controls volunteered for this study. We analysed the influence of l-arginine supplementation (7 g/day during 1 week) over lower limb blood flow (using a venous occlusion plethysmography technique), oxidative stress marker (TBARS, Carbonyls), anti-oxidant parameters (uric acid and TRAP) and total tNOx in rest conditions and after a single bout of submaximal exercise (VO₂ at 10 % below the second ventilatory threshold). Data described as mean ± standard error (SE). Alpha level was P < 0.05.

Results

Glycaemic control parameters were altered in type 1 diabetic subjects, such as HbA1c (5.5 ± 0.03 vs. 8.3 ± 0.4 %) and fasted glycaemia (94.8 ± 1.4 vs. 183 ± 19 mg/dL). Oxidative stress/damage markers (carbonyls and TBARS) were increased in the diabetic group, while uric acid was decreased. Rest lower limb blood flow was lower in type 1 diabetic subjects than in healthy controls (3.53 ± 0.35 vs. 2.66 ± 0.3 ml 100 ml^?¹ min^?¹). l-Arginine supplementation completely recovered basal blood flow to normal levels in type 1 diabetics’ subjects (2.66 ± 0.3 to 4.74 ± 0.86 ml 100 ml^?¹ min^?¹) but did not interfere in any parameter of redox state or exercise.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of l-arginine for the improvement of vascular function in subjects with diabetes, indicating that l-arginine supplementation could be an essential tool for the treatment for the disease complications, at least in non-complicated diabetes. However, based on our data, it is not possible to draw conclusions regarding the mechanisms by which l-arginine therapy is inducing improvements on cardiovascular function, but this important issue requires further investigations.     

Effect of a wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) drink intervention on markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial function in humans with cardiovascular risk factors

Purpose

Wild blueberries (WB) (Vaccinium angustifolium) are rich sources of polyphenols, such as flavonols, phenolic acids and anthocyanins (ACNs), reported to decrease the risk of cardiovascular and degenerative diseases. This study investigated the effect of regular consumption of a WB or a placebo (PL) drink on markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial function in subjects with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Methods

Eighteen male volunteers (ages 47.8 ± 9.7 years; body mass index 24.8 ± 2.6 kg/m²) received according to a cross-over design, a WB (25 g freeze-dried powder, providing 375 mg of ACNs) or a PL drink for 6 weeks, spaced by a 6-week wash-out. Endogenous and oxidatively induced DNA damage in blood mononuclear cells, serum interleukin levels, reactive hyperemia index, nitric oxide, soluble vascular adhesion molecule concentration and other variables were analyzed.

Results

Wild blueberry drink intake significantly reduced the levels of endogenously oxidized DNA bases (from 12.5 ± 5.6 % to 9.6 ± 3.5 %, p ≤ 0.01) and the levels of H₂O₂-induced DNA damage (from 45.8 ± 7.9 % to 37.2 ± 9.1 %, p ≤ 0.01), while no effect was found after the PL drink. No significant differences were detected for markers of endothelial function and the other variables under study.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the consumption of the WB drink for 6 weeks significantly reduced the levels of oxidized DNA bases and increased the resistance to oxidatively induced DNA damage. Future studies should address in greater detail the role of WB in endothelial function. This study was registered at www.isrctn.org as ISRCTN47732406.     

Oxidative stress and inflammation in obesity after taurine supplementation: a double-blind,placebo-controlled study

Purpose

Some researchers found decreased levels of plasma taurine in obese subjects and animals, and reduced expression of an important enzyme of taurine synthesis. These evidences, coupled with the metabolic imbalance of obesity and the possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of taurine, highlighted the use of taurine as a supplement in obesity treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether taurine supplementation, associated with nutritional counseling, modulates oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and glucose homeostasis in obese women.

Methods

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was conducted with 16 women with obesity diagnosis and 8 women in the normal weight range. The obese volunteers were matched by age and body mass index and randomly assigned to either the placebo (3 g/day starch flour) or taurine (3 g/day taurine) group. The study lasted 8 weeks, and the experimental protocol included nutritional assessment and determination of plasma sulfur amino acids, insulin, and adiponectin, serum glycemia, and markers of inflammatory response and oxidative stress.

Results

Plasma taurine levels were significantly decreased (41 %) in the obese volunteers. Both the placebo and taurine groups showed significant reduction in weight (3 %), with no differences between groups. Different from placebo, taurine-supplemented group showed significant increase in plasma taurine (97 %) and adiponectin (12 %) and significant reduction in the inflammatory marker hs-C-reactive protein (29 %) and in the lipid peroxidation marker thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (20 %).

Conclusions

Eight weeks of taurine supplementation associated with nutritional counseling is able to increase adiponectin levels and to decrease markers of inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) in obese women.     

Lung function predicts mortality: 10-year follow-up after lung cancer screening among asbestos-exposed workers

Purpose

To assess the predictive value of lung function impairment on mortality among asbestos-exposed workers.

Methods

A total of 590 workers originally screened for occupational lung disease including spirometry and pulmonary diffusing capacity measurements were followed up for mortality data (ICD-10 classification). The mean follow-up time was 10.5 years. Associations of different lung function parameters with mortality from all causes and from cardiovascular (I00-I99) and non-malignant respiratory diseases (J00-J99) were analysed. Factor analysis was used to create obstructive and restrictive factors.

Results

A total of 191 deaths were found altogether. Most measured lung function variables were associated with increased mortality when studied separately. Both decreased forced expiratory flow in one second (hazard ratio/measurement unit = 0.977, 95 % CI 0.969–0.988, p < 0.001) and impaired diffusing capacity (0.973, 0.965–0.981, p < 0.001) were independently associated with mortality from all causes, as well as from cardiovascular and non-malignant respiratory diseases. Both obstructive factor alone and the sum of obstructive and restrictive factors were associated with all studied mortality categories. The restrictive factor alone was associated with all-cause and respiratory mortality.

Conclusions

Deteriorated lung function predicts deaths. The reasons for impaired lung function should be medically explored to enable restoring measures aiming thus to prevent premature deaths.     

Polyphenol-rich cranberry juice has a neutral effect on endothelial function but decreases the fraction of osteocalcin-expressing endothelial progenitor cells

Purpose

Cranberry juice (CJ) contains a remarkably high concentration of polyphenols, considered to be beneficial for cardiovascular and bone health. The current double-blind, randomized study was designed to test whether daily consumption of double-strength Ocean Spray light CJ (2 × 230 ml) over 4 months has beneficial effects on vascular function and on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) carrying the osteoblastic marker osteocalcin in particular.

Methods

A total of 84 participants (49.5 ± 16.2 years) with peripheral endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular risk factors were enrolled in this double-blind, randomized, controlled trial (69 completed the 4-month protocol—32 in the CJ group and 37 in the placebo group, respectively). Vascular responses to reactive hyperemia were measured non-invasively by peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stained for EPC markers, as well as osteocalcin, and counted by flow cytometry.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. The effect of CJ on peripheral endothelial function and on circulating EPC counts (CD34⁺/CD133⁺/KDR⁺) did not change during the study. A high percentage of EPCs expressed osteocalcin (59.4 ± 35.7%). CJ, as compared to placebo, induced a decrease in the fraction of EPCs expressing osteocalcin (?8.64 ± 48.98 and 19.13 ± 46.11%, respectively, p = 0.019). Systemic levels of the adhesion marker ICAM correlated significantly with the number of EPCs expressing osteocalcin.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that long-term supplementation of polyphenol-rich CJ did not improve peripheral endothelial function. However, the decrease in the fraction of osteocalcin+ EPCs suggests a potential beneficial effect of polyphenol-rich CJ.     

The effect of workplace smoking bans on heart rate variability and pulse wave velocity of non-smoking hospitality workers

Objectives

To investigate the effect of a change in second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure on heart rate variability (HRV) and pulse wave velocity (PWV), this study utilized a quasi-experimental setting when a smoking ban was introduced.

Methods

HRV, a quantitative marker of autonomic activity of the nervous system, and PWV, a marker of arterial stiffness, were measured in 55 non-smoking hospitality workers before and 3–12 months after a smoking ban and compared to a control group that did not experience an exposure change. SHS exposure was determined with a nicotine-specific badge and expressed as inhaled cigarette equivalents per day (CE/d).

Results

PWV and HRV parameters significantly changed in a dose-dependent manner in the intervention group as compared to the control group. A one CE/d decrease was associated with a 2.3 % (95 % CI 0.2–4.4; p = 0.031) higher root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD), a 5.7 % (95 % CI 0.9–10.2; p = 0.02) higher high-frequency component and a 0.72 % (95 % CI 0.40–1.05; p < 0.001) lower PWV.

Conclusions

PWV and HRV significantly improved after introducing smoke-free workplaces indicating a decreased cardiovascular risk.     

Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 4 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin expression in visceral adipose tissue is related to iron status and inflammation in human obesity

Purpose

Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate (STEAP)-4 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) are novel adipokines related to iron homeostasis with potential roles in insulin resistance and inflammation. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of obesity and iron status on gene expression levels of STEAP-4 and NGAL in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and its implication in inflammation.

Methods

VAT biopsies obtained from 53 subjects were used in the study. Real-time PCR and Western-blot were performed to quantify the levels of STEAP4 and NGAL in VAT as well as the association with other genes implicated in inflammatory pathways. Circulating ferritin and free iron concentrations were also determined.

Results

Obese patients exhibited significantly increased STEAP4 and NGAL mRNA expression levels (P < 0.001) compared to lean subjects. Protein expression levels of NGAL (P < 0.05) and STEAP4 were also higher in the visceral fat depot of obese patients, although protein levels of STEAP4 did not reach statistical significance. A negative correlation (P < 0.05) between free iron concentrations and gene expression levels of both STEAP4 and NGAL was found, while circulating ferritin concentrations were positively correlated (P < 0.05) with NGAL mRNA after body fat (BF) adjustment. Furthermore, a significant positive association between STEAP4 and NGAL gene expression levels with inflammatory markers was also detected (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

These findings represent the first observation that STEAP4 and NGAL mRNA and protein levels in human VAT are related to iron status. Moreover, STEAP4 and NGAL are associated with pro-inflammatory markers suggesting their potential involvement in the low-grade chronic inflammation accompanying obesity.     

Dietary folic acid intake differentially affects methionine metabolism markers and hippoccampus morphology in aged rats

Purpose

Folic acid (FA) is an emerging nutritional factor in the pathogenesis of diverse neurodegenerative disorders by still unknown mechanisms. The hippocampus is altered during the loss of cognitive abilities in humans and selectively affected when homocysteine increases. The aim was to evaluate the potential protective role of folic acid in the maintenance of biochemical markers related to the methionine cycle, as well as the integrity of the hippocampus as part of the brain in aged rats.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats (18 months old) were assigned to four different folic acid groups (0 mg FA/kg diet, deficient; 2 mg FA/kg diet, control; 8 mg FA/kg diet, moderate supplementation; 40 mg FA/kg diet, extra supplementation) for 30 days. We evaluated several parameters related to the methionine cycle. In addition, hippocampus areas were immunostained for specific neuronal markers and astrocytes.

Results

Serum folate levels increased according to FA dietary level (p < 0.01). There was a significant increase in the serum homocysteine concentrations in the folic acid-deficient diet group (p < 0.01). However, brain S-adenosylmethionine and S-adenosylhomocysteine did not differ significantly between the folic acid groups. Consequently, the methylation ratio was also unchanged. The morphometric analysis did not show any differences in the number of neurons and astrocytes between groups, except when comparing the folic acid-deficient diet versus folic acid-supplemented diet in the striatum of the hippocampus.

Conclusions

Clearly, the dietary FA deficiency negatively affects the methionine metabolism biomarkers, while excessive supplementation seems to be unnecessary for optimal maintenance of the methylation cycle and hippocampus integrity.     

Associations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D with fasting glucose, fasting insulin, dementia and depression in European elderly: the SENECA study

Purpose

The classical consequence of vitamin D deficiency is osteomalacia, but recent insights into the function of vitamin D suggest that it may play a role in other body systems as well. The objective of this study was to examine the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and markers of glucose metabolism (n = 593), global cognitive functioning (n = 116) and depression (n = 118) in European elderly participating in the SENECA study. Moreover, we wanted to explore whether the observed associations of 25(OH)D with depression and global cognitive performance were mediated by fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels.

Methods

Cross-sectional associations between 25(OH)D and FPG, fasting plasma insulin (FPI) and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), a marker of insulin resistance, were estimated from multiple regression analyses. Associations of 25(OH)D with global cognitive functioning (Mini Mental State Examination) and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale) were examined using Poisson regression.

Results

An inverse association was observed between 25(OH)D and FPG (β-0.001), indicating a 1 % decrease in FPG per 10 nmol/L increase in 25(OH)D, but after full adjustment for demographic factors, lifestyle factors and calcium intake, this association was not statistically significant (P = 0.07). Although participants with intermediate and high serum 25(OH)D levels showed a tendency towards a lower depression score after adjustment for demographic and lifestyle factors, RR and 95 % CI: 0.73 (0.51–1.04) and 0.76 (0.52–1.11), respectively, these findings were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

An inverse association of 25(OH)D with depression and FPG was observed, but this association was not statistically significant. There was no association between 25(OH)D with FPI and HOMA-IR or with global cognitive functioning. More studies are needed to further explore the possible role of vitamin D in the various body systems.     

Environmental cadmium exposure and osteoporosis: a review

Objectives

To review the published literature investigating the association between cadmium exposure and osteoporosis.

Methods

A review of published peer-reviewed literature based on a priori criteria was completed. Odds ratios (OR) were abstracted or estimated from observational studies to calculate a pooled OR using inverse variance weighted random effects models.

Results

The review identified seven studies with a pooled OR of OR = 2.22 (95 % CI: 1.16, 4.28) [I ² = 54.8 % (p < 0.05)] (comparing highest urine cadmium category to lowest). In women over the age of 50 years, the pooled OR was 1.82 (95 % CI: 1.63, 2.02) [I ² = 73.1 % (p < 0.05)]. A dose response evaluation (six studies) suggested increasing odds for osteoporosis with increasing urine cadmium levels.

Conclusions

This review detected an association between cadmium exposure and the occurrence of osteoporosis in a small number of cross-sectional studies which requires confirmation in using prospective study design.     

Toxicokinetic study of pyrrole adducts and its potential application for biological monitoring of 2,5-hexanedione subacute exposure

Purpose

The formation of pyrrole adducts might be responsible for peripheral nerve injury caused by n-hexane, but there is not an effective biomarker for monitoring occupational exposure of n-hexane. The current study was designed to investigate the changes of pyrrole adducts in serum and urine of rats exposed to 2,5-hexanedione (2,5-HD) and analyze the correlation between pyrrole adducts and 2,5-HD.

Methods

Two groups of male Wistar rats (n = 8) were administered a single dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg 2,5-HD (i.p.), and another two groups (n = 8) were given daily dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg 2,5-HD (i.p.) for 5 days. Pyrrole adducts and 2,5-HD in serum and urine were determined, at different time points after dosing, using Ehrlich’s reagent and gas chromatography, respectively.

Results

The levels of pyrrole adducts in serum accumulated in a time-dependant manner after repeated exposure to 2,5-HD, while pyrrole adducts in urine, and 2,5-HD in serum and urine were kept stable. The half-life times (t _1/2) of 2,5-HD and pyrrole adducts in serum were 2.27 ± 0.28 and 25.3 ± 3.34 h, respectively. Furthermore, the levels of pyrrole adducts in urine were significantly correlated with the levels of 2,5-HD in serum (r = 0.736, P < 0.001) and urine (r = 0.730, P < 0.001), and the levels of pyrrole adducts in serum were correlated with the cumulative dosage of 2,5-HD (r = 0.965, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results suggested that pyrrole adducts in serum and urine might be markers of chronic exposure to n-hexane or 2,5-HD.     

Nutritional intake and status in persons with alcohol dependency: data from an outpatient treatment programme

Purpose

Malnutrition increases the risk of developing alcohol-related complications. The aim of this study was to describe nutrient intake, nutritional status and nutrition-related complications in a Danish population of outpatients with alcohol dependency.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study with a 6-month follow-up enrolling persons with alcohol dependency (n = 80) admitted to a hospital-based outpatient clinic. Body mass index, the waist-to-hip ratio and handgrip strength (HGS) were measured, a 7-day food diary was collected, and biochemical testing was conducted. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed to determine body composition and bone mineral density (BMD).

Results

In total, 64 % of the patients with alcohol dependency had vitamin D insufficiency (25-OH-vit D <50 nmol/l). Compared with surveys of the general population, the patients with alcohol dependency had lower energy intake (p = 0.008), s-zinc levels (p < 0.001), s-magnesium levels (p = 0.02), Z-scores for BMD (lumbar spine, p = 0.03; total hip, p = 0.009) and HGS (p < 0.001). Osteopenia was observed in 52 % of individuals, and overt osteoporosis was noted in 7 %. Comparing baseline data with data from the follow-up (n = 30), we found a decrease in s-CRP (p = 0.002) and s-alanine amino transferase (p = 0.01) levels and an increase in s-parathyroid hormone levels (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Patients with alcohol dependency have an altered nutritional status and risk of complications, as evidenced by osteopenia/osteoporosis and reduced muscle strength. Treatment at an outpatient clinic improved the variables related to liver function, but no change was observed in nutritional status over time. These findings suggest that specific screening and targeted treatment regimens for nutritional deficits could be beneficial.     

Bioavailability of phenolics from an oleuropein-rich olive (Olea europaea) leaf extract and its acute effect on plasma antioxidant status: comparison between pre- and postmenopausal women

Purpose

Preclinical studies suggest a potential protective effect of oleuropein in osteoporosis, and one of the proposed mechanisms is the modulation of the oxidative stress. Oleuropein bioavailability and its effect on antioxidant status in pre- and postmenopausal women are unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the oral bioavailability of an olive leaf extract rich in oleuropein (40 %) and its effect on antioxidant status in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal women.

Methods

Premenopausal (n = 8) and postmenopausal women (n = 8) received 250 mg of olive leaf extract, blood samples (t = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 and 24 h) were taken, and 24-h urine divided into five fractions was collected. Olive-leaf-extract-derived metabolites were analyzed in plasma and urine by HPLC-ESI-QTOF and UPLC-ESI-QqQ, and pharmacokinetics parameters were determined. Ferric reducing antioxidant ability and malondialdehyde levels were measured in plasma.

Results

Plasma levels of hydroxytyrosol glucuronide, hydroxytyrosol sulfate, oleuropein aglycon glucuronide and oleuropein aglycon derivative 1 were higher in postmenopausal women. MDA levels were significantly decreased (32 %) in postmenopausal women and inversely correlated with hydroxytyrosol sulfate levels. Postmenopausal women excreted less sulfated metabolites in urine than premenopausal women.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that postmenopausal women could be a target population for the intake of olive phenolics in order to prevent age-related and oxidative stress-related processes such as osteoporosis.     

Relationship between obesity and serum reactive oxygen metabolites in adolescents

Objectives

Various cross-sectional studies have revealed a significant positive relationship between systemic oxidative stress and obesity-related indices such as body mass index (BMI, kg/m²). However, little is known of the role of oxidative stress during adolescence. The aim of this study was to determine the association between obesity and serum reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) in adolescents.

Method

A total of 595 healthy junior high school students from northern Japan were enrolled in the study. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring serum levels of ROM. Obesity indices included BMI and percentage body fat (PBF). The analyses were stratified by sex and controlled for age and menarche. Partial correlation coefficients and analysis of covariance were also analyzed.

Results

In female students, ROM levels increased with increasing BMI and PBF. Therefore, ROM levels were significantly higher in the underweight group than in the BMI-classified overweight–obese (P < 0.001) and normal weight groups (P < 0.05). ROM levels were significantly higher in the high PBF group than in the underweight (P < 0.05) and normal groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study show that, regardless of menarche, obesity indicators such as BMI and PBF are correlated with the level of oxidative stress in female adolescents.     

Personality traits of the Five-Factor Model are associated with work-related stress in special force police officers

Purpose

The police work is particularly stressful. The aim of this work was to clarify whether the personality factors are associated with perceived stress levels or reactivity to environmental stressors in a special body of police.

Methods

The police officers in charge of guaranteeing public order at the L’Aquila G8 meeting were subjected to a control of their levels of work-related stress in anticipation of the event. Personality was assessed by the Italian version of the Five-Factor Model questionnaire, while stress was measured three times (during routine work in January 2009, preparation and imminence of the event, in April and July 2009, respectively) with the demand/control/support model of Karasek and the effort/reward imbalance model of Siegrist. A total of 289 of 294 officers took part in the survey.

Results

Some personality traits of the Five-Factor Model were associated with stress levels and stress reactivity. Neuroticism (low emotional stability) showed the strongest associations with job strain (demand/control ratio) (β = 0.115, p < 0.05) and effort/reward imbalance (β = 0.270, p < 0.001) and was associated with most of the stress variables. High agreeableness was associated with low effort/reward imbalance (β = ?0.157, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Personality factors may mitigate or increase the strain induced by environmental stressors.