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Background/Objectives:Data from human studies that have investigated the association between vitamin D status and cognitive function in elderly adults are conflicting. The objective of this study was to assess vitamin D status (reflected by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)) in older European subjects (n=387; aged 55-87 years) and examine its association with measures of cognitive function.Subjects/Methods:Serum 25(OH)D was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, whereas measures of cognitive function were assessed using a comprehensive Cambridge Neuropsychological Testing Automated Battery (CANTAB).Results:In all, 12, 36 and 64% of subjects had serum 25(OH)D concentrations <30, <50 and <80 nmol/l, respectively, throughout the year. Serum 25(OH)D was significantly and inversely correlated with four assessments within the spatial working memory (SWM) test parameter (SWM between errors (r=−0.166; P=0.003); SWM between errors 8 boxes (r=−0.134; P=0.038); SWM strategy (r=−0.246; P<0.0001); and SWM total errors (r=−0.174; P<0.003)). When subjects were stratified on the basis of tertiles (T) of serum 25(OH)D (<47.6 (T1); 47.6-85.8 (T2); and >85.8 (T3) nmol/l), fewer errors in SWM test scores occurred in subjects in the third T when compared with the first T (P<0.05-0.084). Stratification by sex showed that these differences between tertiles strengthened (P<0.001-0.043) in the females, but the differences were not significant (P>0.6) in males.Conclusions:Vitamin D insufficiency, but not deficiency, is widespread in the older population of several European countries. Low vitamin D status was associated with a reduced capacity for SWM, particularly in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In girls, a plateau in parathyroid hormone (PTH) was observed at a 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration of approximately 60 nmol/l. In boys, there was no plateau in PTH concentrations as 25(OH)D concentration increased. A 25(OH)D threshold of 60 nmol/l appears to have implications for bone health outcomes in both girls and boys. Our objective was to investigate if there is a threshold 25(OH)D concentration where a plateau in PTH concentration is evident and to examine the impact of this relationship on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover in a representative sample of adolescents. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis among 1,015 Northern Irish adolescents aged 12 and 15 years. Serum 25(OH)D, PTH, osteocalcin, type 1 collagen cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTx), and BMD of the nondominant forearm and heel were measured. Nonlinear regression analysis was used to model the association between 25(OH)D and PTH. In girls, a plateau in PTH was observed at a 25(OH)D concentration of approximately 60 nmol/l (PTH = 47.146 + 370.314 × exp(−0.092 × 25(OH)D)) while no plateau in PTH was observed in boys (PTH = 42.144 + 56.366 × exp(−0.022 × 25(OH)D)). Subjects with 25(OH)D levels <60 nmol/l had significantly higher osteocalcin concentrations ( P < 0.05) compared with those who had ≥60 nmol/l, while no significant ( P > 0.05) differences were noted for CTx concentrations. In girls only, nondominant forearm BMD but not heel BMD was significantly higher ( P = 0.046) in those with 25(OH)D concentrations ≥ 60 nmol/l. Serum 25(OH)D levels above 60 nmol/l in Northern Irish adolescent girls prevent an increase in serum PTH levels and maintaining 25(OH)D >60 nmol/l in both girls and boys may lead to improved bone health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To determine vitamin D and bone status in adolescent girls, pre-menopausal women and men of Pakistani origin, to single out determinants of vitamin D status and to determine the association between vitamin D status, bone metabolism and bone status.Subjects/Methods:Cross-sectional study, Copenhagen (55°N), January-November. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (S-25OHD), serum intact parathyroid hormone (S-iPTH), bone turnover markers and whole body and lumbar spine bone mineral density were measured. Sun, smoking and clothing habits, age, body mass index (BMI), and vitamin D and calcium from food and from supplements were recorded. Thirty-seven girls (median age, range: 12.2 years, 10.1–14.7), 115 women (36.2 years, 18.1–52.7) and 95 men (38.3 years, 17.9–63.5) of Pakistani origin (immigrants or descendants with Pakistani parents) took part in the study.Results:Median concentration of S-25OHD was 10.9, 12.0 and 20.7 nmol/l for girls, women and men, respectively. Forty-seven per cent of the girls, 37% of the women and 24% of the men had elevated S-iPTH, and there was a negative relationship between S-iPTH and S-25OHD. Use of vitamin D-containing supplements had a positive association with S-25OHD for men (P=0.04) and women (P=0.0008). Twenty-one per cent of the women and 34% of the men had osteopenia. Neither S-25OHD nor S-iPTH was associated with lumbar spine or whole body bone mineral content.Conclusions:Severely low vitamin D status and elevated S-iPTH is common among Pakistani immigrants in Denmark. The low vitamin D status is not associated with bone markers or bone mass among relatively young Pakistanis.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2008) 62, 625–634; doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602753; published online 18 April 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To investigate determinants (pathophysiologic and physiologic, behavioural and lifestyle) of vitamin D status in Irish Crohn's disease (CD) patients.Design:A cross-sectional observational study.Setting:Cork City, Ireland (52°N).Subjects:Crohn's Disease patients (n=58; mean age 38.1 years) were recruited from Cork University Hospital.Results:Fifty and nineteen percent of Irish CD patients were vitamin D deficient (defined by serum 25 hydroxyvitamin (OH) D levels <50 nmol/l) during winter and summer, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that summer-time serum 25 (OH) D levels were positively associated with use of vitamin D supplements (P=0.033) and negatively associated with smoking (P=0.006) and being male (P=0.063). During winter-time, use of vitamin D supplements (P=0.041) and sun habits (P=0.066) were positively associated, whereas small intestinal involvement (P=0.005) and body mass index (BMI) (P=0.083) were negatively associated with serum 25 (OH) D levels. There was no significant association between other non-pathophysiologic (age, dietary calcium or vitamin D) or pathophysiologic factors (steroid use, resection), and serum 25 (OH) D levels, at either season. Approximately 41 and 60% of the total variation in summer- and winter-time serum 25 (OH) D, respectively, was explained by this model.Conclusion:A high proportion of Irish CD patents had some level of vitamin D deficiency (<50 nmol/l) during late-wintertime. Use of regular low-dose supplemental vitamin D, particularly by patients with small intestinal involvement, cessation of smoking and adequate, but responsible, exposure to summer sunlight as well as maintaining BMI in the normal range could help maintain adequate vitamin D levels during wintertime.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2006) 60, 889–896. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602395; published online 22 February 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elderly are at nutritional risk as a result of multiple physiological, social, psychological, and economic factors. Physiological functions naturally decline with age, which may influence absorption and metabolism. Social and economic conditions can adversely affect dietary choices and eating patterns. However, at the same time, the nutrient needs of the elderly for certain nutrient (such as vitamins, minerals, proteins) is higher than for younger adults. This article reviews the importance of zinc (Zn) in elderly people, particularly for behavioural and mental function, micronutrient status, immune and antioxidant system, and bone metabolism.Sponsorship:The ZENITH Study is supported by the European Commission ‘Quality of Life and Management of Living Resources’ Fifth Framework Program, Contract No: QLK1-CT-2001-00168.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, Suppl 2, S1–S4. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602286 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Adjustments in intestinal absorption and losses of zinc (Zn) are thought to maintain Zn homeostasis when dietary intake levels are altered. Zn status may also influence efficiency of intestinal Zn absorption.Objectives:To determine the impact of dietary intake and status of some micronutrients on Zn absorption in late middle-aged men.Design and participants:Dietary intake and status of Zn, Cu, Fe, vitamin A, C and fibre, and absorption of Zn were measured in 48 men, aged 58-68 y, confined to a metabolic unit and consuming a typical French diet. Dietary intake was estimated using 4-day food-intake records (including the weekend) and the GENI program. To assess Zn status, serum, erythrocyte, urine Zn levels and serum alkaline phosphatase activity were determined. Zn absorption was determined using the isotope double-labelling method. Zn stable isotopic ratios were measured in plasma samples collected before and 48 h after isotope administration using ICP/MS.Results:Zn intake within the group of men varied from 5.7 to 20.5 mg/day and averaged 12.9 mg/day. Serum Zn level varied from 10 to 18 μmol/l and averaged 12.9 μmol/l. Zn absorption varied from 12 to 46% and averaged 29.7%. Zn absorption was not significantly (P>0.05) correlated with Zn intake or with any of the Zn status parameters. Zn absorption was only slightly negatively correlated with serum and erythrocyte Zn levels and with serum Fe and ferritin levels in this study.Conclusion:Zn dietary intake and Zn absorption were satisfactory and led to an adequate Zn status in this population.Sponsorship:The ZENITH Study is supported by the European Commission ‘Quality of Life and Management of Living Resources’ Fifth Framework Program, Contract No: QLK1-CT-2001-00168.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, Suppl 2, S48–S52. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602298 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To investigate the relationship between indices of zinc nutritive status and biochemical markers of bone turnover in older adult European subjects.Design:Use of baseline data from a multicentre prospective zinc intervention (ZENITH) study.Setting:Centres in France, Italy and Northern Ireland.Participants:A total of 387 healthy adults, aged 55–87 y.Methods:Zinc intake was assessed by 4-day recall records. Circulating and urinary biochemical zinc status measures were assessed by atomic absorption spectrophometry. Serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin were assessed by ELISA and urinary pyridinoline (Pyr) and deoxypyridinoline (Dpyr) by HPLC.Results:Zinc intake was negatively correlated with urinary Pyr and Dpyr (r=−0.298 and −0.304, respectively; P<0.0001), but was not correlated with bone formation markers. There was a tendency for serum zinc to be negatively correlated with urinary Dpyr (r=−0.211; P=0.080). Erythrocyte zinc was negatively correlated with serum osteocalcin (r=−0.090; P<0.0001). None of the other correlations were significant. After adjustment for confounder (age, gender and research centre) the only significant association that remained was between serum osteocalcin and erythrocyte zinc (β=−0.124; P=0.011).Conclusions:There was some, albeit inconsistent, evidence of a relationship between zinc nutritive status and bone turnover in the older adult participants of the ZENITH study.Sponsorship:ZENITH is supported by the European Commission ‘Quality of Life and Management of Living Resources’ Fifth Framework Programme, Contract No: QLK1-CT-2001-00168.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, Suppl 2, S73–S78. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602303 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE:: To determine the vitamin D status (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D; S-25OHD) in adolescent girls and elderly community-dwelling women living in four countries of northern Europe and to explain differences in S-25OHD concentrations between and within the countries. DESIGN:: A cross-sectional observational study conducted in a standardised way during February-March. S-25OHD was analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Vitamin D and calcium intake was calculated using a standardised food composition database. SETTING:: Denmark, Finland, Ireland, and Poland. SUBJECTS:: A total of 199 girls (mean (s.d.) age 12.6 (0.5)?y) and 221 women (mean (s.d.) age 71.8 (1.4)?y). RESULTS:: The median (inter quartiles) concentration of S-25OHD was 29.4 (20.3, 38.3)?nmol/l for the girls and 40.7 (28.0, 54.2)?nmol/l for the women. S-25OHD below 25?nmol/l was found in 37%of the girls and 17%of the women, and S-25OHD below 50?nmol/l was found in 92%of the girls and 37%of the women. Positive significant determinants for S-25OHD in girls were use of vitamin D supplements, and in women sun habits, dietary vitamin D intake, use of vitamin D and calcium supplements. Body mass index and smoking were negative determinants in women. For women predictors could explain the differences between countries (Pcountry=0.09, R2=0.39), but for girls the difference remained significant even after including predictors (Pcountry=0.03, R2=0.15). CONCLUSION:: Vitamin D status is low in northern Europe during winter. More than one-third of the adolescent girls have vitamin D status below 25?nmol/l and almost all are below 50?nmol/l. Two-thirds of the elderly community-dwelling women have vitamin D status below 50?nmol/l. Use of vitamin D supplements is a significant positive determinant for S-25OHD for both girls and women (P=0.001). SPONSORSHIP:: The European Fifth Framework Programme (Contract No. QLK1-CT-2000-00623).European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, 533-541. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602108 Published online 16 February 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE:: The objective of this study was to assess vitamin D status during late-summer and late-winter/early-spring in postmenopausal Irish women, and whether it was influenced by vitamin D-containing supplement use. DESIGN:: A longitudinal observational study. SETTING:: Cork City, Ireland (51°north). SUBJECTS:: A total of 59 apparently healthy, free-living, postmenopausal women aged between 51 and 69?y were sampled during February/March 2002. Of these, 48 and 47 returned during August/September 2002 and February/March 2003, respectively. None of the women were suffering from any medical condition likely to affect vitamin D status. Fasting serums were collected and analysed for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH) D) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) by enzyme immunoassays. RESULTS:: Mean daily intake of vitamin D was 3.2?µg from food sources alone and 5.8?µg when vitamin D-containing supplements were included (P<0.01). Serum 25 (OH) D was significantly lower (P<0.001) during February/March 2002 than both August/September 2002 and February/March 2003. Serum 25 (OH) D was also significantly higher (P=0.05) in women who were vitamin D-containing supplement users than nonusers during all three sampling points. Between 17 and 36%of women had inadequate vitamin D status (defined as serum 25 (OH) D<40?nmol/l) during late-winter, but only 4%had inadequate vitamin D status during late-summer. Serum 25 (OH) D was inversely related to serum PTH (r=-0.33; P=0.028). CONCLUSION:: Suboptimal vitamin D status is common in postmenopausal Irish women during winter. Vitamin D supplementation is associated with improved vitamin D status, even during summertime. SPONSORSHIP:: Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, 404-410. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602088 Published online 22 December 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION:: Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been shown to positively influence calcium and bone metabolism in experimental animals and cells in culture, but there are limited human data available. OBJECTIVE:: To investigate the effect of CLA supplementation on biomarkers of calcium and bone metabolism in healthy adult males. DESIGN:: The study consisted of a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 60 healthy adult males (aged 39-64?y) were randomly assigned to receive daily either 3.0?g CLA isomer blend (50:50%cis-9,trans-11:trans-10,cis-12 isomers) or a palm/bean oil blend (placebo) for 8 weeks. Urine and blood samples were collected at weeks 0 and 8 and were analysed for biomarkers of calcium and bone metabolism. RESULTS:: Supplementation with CLA or placebo for 8 weeks had no significant effects on markers of bone formation (serum osteocalcin and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase) or bone resorption (serum C-telopeptide-related fraction of type 1 collagen degradation products, urinary N-telopeptide-related fraction of type 1 collagen degradation products, urinary pyridinoline and deoxypyridinoline), or on serum or urinary calcium levels. Baseline levels of these biochemical parameters were similar in both groups of subjects. While the placebo had no effect, CLA supplementation resulted in a three-fold increase (P<0.00001) in cis-9,trans-11 CLA isomer in total plasma lipids. CONCLUSION:: Under the conditions tested in this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adult men, a CLA supplement of mixed isomers did not affect markers of calcium or bone metabolism. Further investigation of the effects of CLA on calcium and bone metabolism in other gender- and age-groups is warranted. SPONSORSHIP:: Irish Government.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, 432-440. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602093 Published online 26 January 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE:: To estimate vitamin D intakes in a representative sample of Irish adults and to assess the contribution of foods to these intake estimates. DESIGN:: Vitamin D intakes in 1379, 18-64-y-old adults from the North/South Ireland Food Consumption Survey were estimated using a combination of new analytical data for vitamin D in foods, determined by HPLC, and used to revise recipe calculations, together with existing data from McCance and Widdowson's The Composition of Foods, 5th Edition plus supplements. RESULTS:: The total mean daily intake (MDI) of vitamin D (1?µg=40?IU) from all sources was 4.2?µg. The MDI was significantly higher (P<0.001) when the contribution from nutritional supplements was included (4.2?µg) compared with food sources only (3.2?µg). Men had significantly higher intakes (4.4?µg) than women (4.0?µg; P<0.001), which increased significantly (P<0.001) with age in both sexes. Meat/meat products (30.1%), fish/fish products (14.3%) and eggs/egg dishes (9.1%) were the main contributors to vitamin D intake. Supplements contributed 6.8 and 12%to MDI in men and women, respectively. In all, 74%of adults had an MDI of vitamin D that was less than the median (5?µg) of the recommended daily range of 0-10?µg. CONCLUSION:: The findings of this study suggest that a large number of Irish adults have low vitamin D intakes. This, along with emerging evidence of low vitamin D status in at least some population subgroups, suggests that strategies to increase vitamin D intakes, including fortification of food, should be investigated.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2004) 58, 1509-1517. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602001 Published online 12 May 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of a high-sodium, high-protein diet on bone metabolism in postmenopausal women (aged 49–60 y) stratified by hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use. In a crossover trial, 18 women (n=8 HRT users (+HRT) and n=10 nonusers (-HRT)) were randomly assigned to a diet high in protein (90 g/day) and sodium (180 mmol/day) (calciuric diet) or a diet moderate in protein (70 g/day) and low in sodium (65 mmol/day) for 4 weeks followed by crossover to alternative dietary regimen for a further 4 weeks. The calciuric diet significantly (P<0.05) increased urinary sodium, calcium and nitrogen in both groups. While the calciuric diet increased urinary N-telopeptide crosslinks of collagen (by B25%, P=0.003) in the +HRT group, it had no effect in the +HRT group. It appears that postmenopausal HRT use attenuates the increase in a marker of bone resorption associated with a calciuric diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To measure the intake of selenium (Se) and the contribution of different food groups to Se intake in adults aged 18-64 y in Ireland. The adequacy of Se intake in the population is also assessed.Design: Food consumption was estimated using a 7 day food diary for a representative sample (n=1379; men=662, women=717) of 18-64-y-old Irish adults selected randomly from the electoral register. Se intake was estimated using updated tables of food composition.Results: Mean daily Se intakes (+/-s.d.) from all sources (ie food plus supplements), and from food sources alone, for the group of Irish adults aged 18-64 y were 52 (+/-23) and 50 (+/-21) microg, respectively. Mean daily Se intake (from all sources) was significantly higher in men of all ages than women of all ages at levels of 60 and 44 microg, respectively (P<0.001). Meat/meat products (30%), bread and rolls (24%), fish/fish products (approximately 11%), and milk and yoghurt (9%) were the main contributors to mean daily Se intake. Adequacy of Se intake in population groups was estimated as the percentage of the population with mean daily Se intakes that were lower than the average requirement of 40 microg. Using this measure, 45.6% of women and 17.1% of men had inadequate Se intakes.Conclusion: A significant prevalence of inadequate Se intakes was observed in Irish adults. Therefore, it would seem prudent that the Se status of the Irish population be investigated at this time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which investigated the effect on calcium absorption of two cereal-based fiber extracts. Materials and methods used in the study; Results and discussion.

Sponsorship:The ZENITH Study is supported by the European Commission ‘Quality of Life and Management of Living Resources’ Fifth Framework Program, Contract No: QLK1-CT-2001-00168.Zinc is known to be essential for a great number of biochemical activities and physiological and cognitive functions. The objective of Zenith study was to investigate the effects of Zn, as a nutritional supplement, on psychological and behavioural factors and on surrogate markers that are indicative of trends towards better health in order to evaluate the need for dietary recommendations specific to the studied population. We report in this paper the summary of baseline results obtained before Zn supplementation.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005) 59, Suppl 2, S5–S7. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602304 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low serum 25(OH)D levels (< 30 nmol/L) have been associated with increased depressive symptom scores over time, and it is believed that functionality may play a mediating role in the relationship between 25(OH)D and depressive symptoms. To comprehend the association between these factors could have significant implications for public health policy. The aim of this study was to verify the association between simultaneous vitamin D insufficiency and depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults. This was a cross-sectional study with data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), collected between 2015 and 2016. The outcomes were functional disability assessed through basic activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The exposures were vitamin D insufficiency (< 30 nmol/L) and depressive symptoms (≥ 4 points in 8-item version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression). Crude and adjusted Poisson regression was performed to estimate associations. A total of 1781 community-dwelling older adults included in this study, 14.6% had disability in ADL and 47.9% in IADL; 59.7% had vitamin D insufficient levels, and 33.2% depressive symptoms. The concomitant presence of vitamin D insufficient and depressive symptoms increased the prevalence of ADL by 2.20 (95% CI: 1.25; 3.86) and IADL by 1.54 (95% CI: 1.24; 1.91), respectively. Therefore, preventive strategies to keep older adults physically and socially active, with a good level of vitamin D, are essential to avoid depression and functional disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D) among dark-pigmented persons has been observed. To elucidate the reason for this we examined sun behaviour, sun-exposed body area, solar UVR exposure and 25(OH)D levels in immigrants with dark pigmented skin and Danes with light pigmented skin. Clothing, sun behaviour, and diet were recorded daily during a Danish summer season (93 analysed days). Erythema-weighted UVR doses were measured by personal electronic UVR dosimeters (with erythema response, measurement every 5th second) and 25(OH)D was measured in 72 participants (33 dark-skinned and 39 light-skinned). The immigrants exposed 28% less skin area, received 70% less UVR dose, and had 71% less 25(OH)D increase during the summer. The UVR reactivity (Δ25(OH)D per joule accumulated UVR dose) was similar (P = 0.62) among the immigrants (0.53 nmol l−1 J−1) and the Danes (0.63 nmol l−1 J−1). In the groups combined, 25(OH)D levels after summer were mainly influenced by UVR dose to exposed skin (28.8%) and 25(OH)D start level (27.9%). Height and measured constitutive skin pigmentation were of minor influence: 3.5% and 3.2%, respectively. Sun exposure and clothing habits were the main reasons for lower 25(OH)D level after summer in the darker immigrants, as both groups had similar UVR reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease. The strongest genetic risk factor for sporadic AD is carriage of the ε4 allele of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene. Strategies to slow the progression of AD, including dietary interventions, may be modified by the pathogenic effect of this polymorphism. Our objective in this review was to determine the extent and quality of the literature investigating how dietary factors and interventions interact with the APOE ε4 genotype to impact cognitive decline in AD. To that end, we performed a systematic scoping review of published English-language articles involving human subjects. We found evidence suggesting that adherence to a Mediterranean diet may reduce cognitive decline among APOE ε4 carriers, whereas ketogenic agents appear to be ineffective. Diets high in saturated fats may be particularly harmful for APOE ε4 carriers. We identified several topics, including the use of ω-3 fatty acid and antioxidant supplements, for which additional high level evidence is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the effect of preheat-treatments and bleaching agents on molecular characteristics and bioavailability of obtained bio-calcium. Methods: Bio-calcium from Asian sea bass backbone was prepared using different preheat-treatment methods (boiling at 100 °C for 30 min or autoclaving at 121 °C for 90 min). Subsequent bleaching was carried out using 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, followed by 2.5% hydrogen peroxide or using 2.5% hydrogen peroxide alone. Results: Bio-calcium powder from autoclaved bone had higher calcium content (35.9 ± 0.2%) than that produced from boiled bone (25.7 ± 1.2%). Particle size of bio-calcium from autoclaved bone (16.71 ± 16.71 µm) was lower than that from boiled bone (52.85 ± 43.16 µm). Highest whiteness index (92.26 ± 0.21) was observed for autoclaved bone bio-calcium when hydrogen peroxide alone was used as bleaching agent. FTIR study confirmed that Ca-hydroxyapatite was present in both bio-calcium from boiled and autoclaved bones but the amount was higher in the latter. Conclusion: Boiling or boiling/autoclaving could be alternative pre-treatment for bio-calcium production to reduce chemical or alkali used and to soften the bone. However, solubility of autoclaved bone bio-calcium was lower than boiled bone counterpart. Enhancement of solubility is still needed to improve bio-availability of bio-calcium from Asian sea bass backbone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments show that elevated atmospheric CO 2 (eCO 2 ) often enhances plant photosynthesis and productivity, yet this effect varies substantially and may be climate sensitive. Understanding if, where and how water supply regulates CO 2 enhancement is critical for projecting terrestrial responses to increasing atmospheric CO 2 and climate change. Here, using data from 14 long-term ecosystem-scale CO 2 experiments, we show that the eCO 2 enhancement of annual aboveground net primary productivity is sensitive to annual precipitation and that this sensitivity differs between woody and grassland ecosystems. During wetter years, CO 2 enhancement increases in woody ecosystems but declines in grass-dominated systems. Consistent with this difference, woody ecosystems can increase leaf area index in wetter years more effectively under eCO 2 than can grassland ecosystems. Overall, and across different precipitation regimes, woody systems had markedly stronger CO 2 enhancement (24%) than grasslands (13%). We developed an empirical relationship to quantify aboveground net primary productivity enhancement on the basis of changes in leaf area index, providing a new approach for evaluating eCO 2 impacts on the productivity of terrestrial ecosystems., (© 2022. This is a U.S. government work and not under copyright protection in the U.S.; foreign copyright protection may apply.)

The synthesis of 25-(1-carboxymethoxy)-imino-3(S)-hydroxy-9,10-seco-27-norcholesta-5(Z),7(E),10(19)-triene, a new hapten of vitamin D3, has been carried out in ten steps from ergosterol. The hapten was conjugated to horseradish peroxidase and bovine serum albumin. Antibodies to 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 were obtained using the synthesized conjugates. An immunochemical system was developed for the quantitative determination of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review discusses the data on vitamin D accumulation in animals, plants, and other organisms. 7-Dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) and ergosterol are considered to be the only true precursors of vitamin D, although even vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is not fully comparable to vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in regard to their functions. These precursors are converted by UV radiation into the corresponding D vitamins. There are a few published reports that this reaction can also occur in the dark or under blue light, which is unexpected and requires explanation. Another unexpected result is conversion of pro-vitamins D (7-DHC and ergosterol) into vitamin D3 and D2 via pre-vitamin D at low temperatures (<16°C) in the lichen Cladonia rangiferina. An extensive survey of literature data leads to the conclusion that vitamin D is synthesized from (1) 7-DHC via lanosterol (D3) in land animals; (2) 7-DHC via cycloartenol (D3) in plants; (3) ergosterol via lanosterol (D2) in fungi; and (4) 7-DHC or ergosterol (D3 or D2) in algae. Vitamin D primarily accumulates in organisms, in which it acts as a pro-hormone, e.g., land animals. It can also be found as a degradation product in many other species, in which spontaneous conversion of some membrane sterols upon UV irradiation leads to the formation of vitamins D3 or D2, even if they are not necessarily needed by the organism. Such products accumulate due to the absence of metabolizing enzymes, e.g., in algae, fungi, or lichens. Other organisms (e.g., zooplankton and fish) receive vitamins D with food; in this case, vitamins D do not seem to carry out biological functions; they are not metabolized but stored in cells. A few exceptions were found: the rainbow trout and at least four plant species that accumulate active hormone calcitriol (but not vitamin D) in relatively high amounts. As a result, these plants are very toxic for grazing animals (cause enzootic calcinosis). In connection with the proposal of some scientists to produce large quantities of vitamin D with the help of plants, the accumulation of calcitriol in some plants is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental surveillance of poliovirus (PV) and other non-enveloped viruses can help identify silent circulation and is necessary to certify eradication. The bag-mediated filtration system is an efficient method to filter large volumes of environmental waters at field sites for monitoring the presence of viruses. As filters may require long transit times to off-site laboratories for processing, viral inactivation or overgrowth of bacteria and fungi can interfere with virus detection and quantification (Miki and Jacquet in Aquatic Microb Ecol 51(2):195-208, 2008). To evaluate virus survival over time on ViroCap filters, the filters were seeded with PV type 1 (PV1) and/or MS2 and then dosed with preservatives or antibiotics prior to storage and elution. These filters were stored at various temperatures and time periods, and then eluted for PV1 and MS2 recovery quantification. Filters dosed with the preservative combination of 2% sodium benzoate and 0.2% calcium propionate had increased virus survival over time when stored at 25 °C, compared to samples stored at 25 °C with no preservatives. While elution within 24 h of filtration is recommended, if storage or shipping is required then this preservative mixture can help preserve sample integrity. Addition of an antibiotic cocktail containing cephapirin, gentamicin, and Proclin 300 increased recovery after storage at 4 and 25 °C, when compared to storage with no antibiotics. The antibiotic cocktail can aid sample preservation if access to appropriate antibiotics storage is available and sample cold chain is unreliable. This study demonstrated that the use of preservatives or antibiotics is a simple, cost-effective method to improve virus detection from ViroCap cartridge filters over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gluten matrix in bread dough develops through the mixing process, and its microstructure is known to greatly affect the quality of the end product. In this study, a novel method to quantify the gluten matrix was developed by applying image analysis methods used in the area of bone histomorphometry to fluorescence images of dough. Acquisition of clear images of the gluten matrix and the incorporated starch has been made possible by a novel fluorescence visualization method using acid magenta and the blue fluorescent filter. The images with high contrast between gluten, starch, and other constituents allowed accurate binarization between gluten and background. Bread dough at four mixing stages was made to observe gluten development. Three parameters were extracted from the gluten area: gluten thickness, total length of gluten per area, and average length of gluten. At the final (optimum) mixing stage, gluten thickness and average length of gluten showed minimum values, while the total length of gluten showed the maximum value. This showed that at the final mixing stage, gluten strands become thin and highly branched. In addition, thin membrane-like structures were observed at the over-mixing stage, indicating the breakdown of gluten structure. Further application of this quantification method to flours with different gluten content would enable comprehensive understanding of the gluten formation in dough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review concerns issues related to the evolutionary and genetic origins of hypertensive disease. An evolutionary approach is used to account for the predisposition of modern people to the development of a pathology such as hypertensive disease. Many studies indicate the importance of 'ancestral' alleles, which provided perfect adaptation to the environment and lifestyle of our distant relatives, with respect to the increase in hypertensive disease development among modern individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the sodium chloride reduction from 2 to 1 % and its partial replacement with different level of potassium chloride and yeast extract on durum wheat ( Triticum turgidum L subsp. durum Desf.) bread was evaluated through the study of the quality parameters and bread shelf life. Breads were packaged under modified atmosphere conditions and stored at 25 °C for as long as 120 days. No significant differences were observed among the bread samples on the specific volume, crumb porosity, crust thickness, loaf firmness and moisture content. The 5-hydroxymethylfurfural levels ranged in the bread samples, independently from the level of salts and the yeast extract added, from approximately 16 mg/kg to approximately 59 mg/kg of dry matter before storage, and decrease rapidly during storage. The yeast and mould counts showed values lower than 1 log cfu/g until 30 days of storage after a gradual increase was detected in the breads at low sodium chloride content. During storage, an increase of the total viable count in all bread samples was also recorded. The results of the sensory data have shown that the breads had similar evaluation and before storage differed in elasticity, moisture and salt content. After 90 days of storage, only the salt and moisture content differentiated the samples. In fact, moisture content decreased significantly (from about 38 to 23 %) in all bread samples with storage, independently from the salts and the yeast extract content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of starches, proteins, and fat in baked foods determine their texture and palatability, and there is a great demand for techniques to visualize the distributions of these constituents. In this study, the distributions of gluten, starch, and butter in pie pastry were visualized without any staining, by using the fluorescence fingerprint (FF). The FF, also known as the excitation-emission matrix (EEM), is a set of fluorescence spectra acquired at consecutive excitation wavelengths. Fluorescence images of the sample were acquired with excitation and emission wavelengths in the ranges of 270-320 and 350-420 nm, respectively, at 10-nm increments. The FFs of each pixel were unmixed into the FFs and abundances of five constituents, gluten, starch, butter, ferulic acid, and the microscope slide, by using the least squares method coupled with constraints of non-negativity, full additivity, and quantum restraint on the abundances of the slide glass. The calculated abundances of butter, starch, and gluten at each pixel were converted to shades of red (R), green (G), and blue (B), respectively, and RGB images showing the distribution of these three constituents was composited. The composited images showed high correspondence with the images acquired with the conventional staining method. Furthermore, the ratio of gluten, starch, and butter in short pastry was calculated from the abundance images. The calculated ratio was 16.6:37.6:45.8, which was very close to the actual ratio of 12.7:38.8:48.5, and further proved the accuracy of this imaging method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper involves overview of several studies concerning quantitative major and trace element analysis of different food samples, such as products of plant origin, e.g., locally grown vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes) and products of animal origin derived with or without processing (cottage cheese, eggs, honey). Food samples were collected over the territory of Latvia in the time period 2009-2012. Sample pre-treatment was chosen according to the product specifics but mostly wet mineralization with concentrated nitric acid was applied. Analysis of major elements (e.g., Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na) and trace elements (e.g., As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Se, Zn) was performed by appropriate quantitative analytical technique: atomic absorption spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry or total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Not only the influence of environmental factors (e.g., geographical or seasonal impact) was detected in element dissemination in food, also botanical origin (if applicable) and applied agricultural praxis, product processing and storage specifics were found to be important. Possible food contamination by potentially toxic elements can be associated mostly with the consequences of anthropogenic activities. The studies revealed the significance of food research in the context of environmental science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise of food security up international political, societal and academic agendas has led to increasing interest in novel means of improving primary food production and reducing waste. There are however, also many 'post-farm gate' activities that are critical to food security, including processing, packaging, distributing, retailing, cooking and consuming. These activities all affect a range of important food security elements, notably availability, affordability and other aspects of access, nutrition and safety. Addressing the challenge of universal food security, in the context of a number of other policy goals (e.g. social, economic and environmental sustainability), is of keen interest to a range of UK stakeholders but requires an up-to-date evidence base and continuous innovation. An exercise was therefore conducted, under the auspices of the UK Global Food Security Programme, to identify priority research questions with a focus on the UK food system (though the outcomes may be broadly applicable to other developed nations). Emphasis was placed on incorporating a wide range of perspectives ('world views') from different stakeholder groups: policy, private sector, non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups and academia. A total of 456 individuals submitted 820 questions from which 100 were selected by a process of online voting and a three-stage workshop voting exercise. These 100 final questions were sorted into 10 themes and the 'top' question for each theme identified by a further voting exercise. This step also allowed four different stakeholder groups to select the top 7-8 questions from their perspectives. Results of these voting exercises are presented. It is clear from the wide range of questions prioritised in this exercise that the different stakeholder groups identified specific research needs on a range of post-farm gate activities and food security outcomes. Evidence needs related to food affordability, nutrition and food safety (all key elements of food security) featured highly in the exercise. While there were some questions relating to climate impacts on production, other important topics for food security (e.g. trade, transport, preference and cultural needs) were not viewed as strongly by the participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell based treatments for myocardial infarction have demonstrated efficacy in the laboratory and in phase I clinical trials, but the understanding of such therapies remains incomplete. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are classically defined as maintaining the ability to generate mesenchyme-derived cell types, namely adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteocytes. Recent evidence suggests these cells may in fact harbor much greater potency than originally realized, as several groups have found that MSCs can form cardiac lineage cells in vitro . Additionally, experimental coculture of MSCs with cardiomyocytes appears to improve contractile function of the latter. Bolstered by such findings, several clinical trials have begun to test MSC transplantation for improving post-infarct cardiac function in human patients. The results of these trials have been mixed, underscoring the need to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying stem cell biology. To help synthesize the breadth of studies on the topic, this paper discusses current challenges in the field of MSC cellular therapies for cardiac repair, including methods of cell delivery and the identification of molecular markers that accurately specify the therapeutically relevant mesenchymal cell types. The various possible mechanisms of MSC mediated cardiac improvement, including somatic reprogramming, transdifferentiation, paracrine signaling, and direct electrophysiological coupling are also reviewed. Finally, we consider the traditional cell culture microenvironment, and the promise of cardiac tissue engineering to provide biomimetic in vitro model systems to more faithfully investigate MSC biology, helping to safely and effectively translate exciting discoveries in the laboratory to meaningful therapies in the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to study the effect of calcium (Ca) carbonate-inulin (In) systems on hydration and rheological properties of wheat flour dough. Wheat flour, Ca carbonate from 108 to 252 (mg Ca/100 g flour) content, and enriched In oligofructose at levels of 1% to 13% (flour basis), were used. Hydration dough properties were researched analyzing water absorption ( W), moisture content ( M), water activity ( a), and relaxation time ( λ). W and a decreased with increasing In levels independently of Ca content. Dough development time increased with the amount of Ca. In the presence of In, samples with the lowest content of Ca were those showing the highest development time values. Inulin was the main component that controled W in dough. In the presence of CaCO, although water seemed to be in a free state according to the high a value measured (>0.975), the low value of relaxation time obtained suggests less molecular mobility. Rheological properties of dough were studied by texture, relaxation, and viscoelasticity assays. Dough hardness and consistency significantly increased with Ca and mainly with In content. At high In content, dough texture was enhanced by CaCO due to the fact that this salt could behave as dough strengthener. Adhesiveness of dough was not modified by CaCO at low In levels. However, Ca affected adhesiveness at intermediate In levels. Adhesiveness was significantly increased by In presence. Calcium and In both diminished dough cohesiveness. The In presence increased dough elasticity, independently of Ca content. A second-order polynomial model and response surface methodology were used for studying hydration dependence and rheological parameters ( R > 0.771) on Ca and In. Dough M varied with In and mainly inversely proportional to In. An inverse dependence of λ on In was detected. Dynamic and relaxation elastic moduli ( G′ and E) showed a linear dependence on In. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of two types of pectins with different degrees of esterification on dough and bread characteristics was analysed. A high methoxyl pectin (HMP) and a low methoxyl pectin (LMP) were assayed in dough without or with salt (2%) at levels ranging from 0.25% to 2.0%. Farinographic water absorption increased when pectins were incorporated in dough with salt, whereas this effect was not observed in dough without salt. Pectin addition diminished the stability of dough in all cases. Texture profile analysis showed that pectins softened the dough, particularly when salt was added. Cohesiveness was also higher in doughs with salt at the maximum level of hydrocolloid addition. In dough with salt, HMP decreased the elastic and viscous moduli, while the values for tan ( δ) were increased with respect to control. SEM micrographs showed that dough with pectin has a filamentous structure. In the breadmaking process, dough with HMP showed a better performance, leading to higher specific volumes and softer crumbs both in fresh and stored bread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To prepare calcium-binding peptides, the flesh residue of Mactra Veneriformis was subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis. By comparing the capability of combining calcium of the hydrolyzates, pepsin was confirmed to be the most suitable enzyme for hydrolyzing the flesh residue to release calcium-binding peptides among the seven tested proteases. The pepsin hydrolyzate (PHM) was divided into three fractions according to the molecule weight of its composition, which ranged from 0.5 to 15 kDa. The low-molecule-weight fraction named PHM-3 had the highest capability in combining calcium. The peptides existing in the PHM-3 fraction consisted of higher contents of Glu, Ala and Leu, and could produce one type of calcium-peptide complex by powerfully chelating calcium ions. PHM-3 products could effectively increase calcium absorption and retention while they decreased the calcium excretion in animal tests. Additionally, symptoms caused by low calcium bioavailability in ovariectomized rats, such as bone mineral density reduction and mechanical strength loss could be significantly ameliorated by the hydrolytic products addition in diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone is a tissue undergoing continuous building and degradation. This remodelling is a tightly regulated process that can be disturbed by many factors, particularly hormonal changes. Chronic inflammation can also perturb bone metabolism and promote increased bone loss. Inflammatory diseases can arise all over the body, including in the musculoskeletal system (for example, rheumatoid arthritis), the intestine (for example, inflammatory bowel disease), the oral cavity (for example, periodontitis) and the lung (for example, cystic fibrosis). Wherever inflammatory diseases occur, systemic effects on bone will ensue, as well as increased fracture risk. Here, we discuss the cellular and signalling pathways underlying, and strategies for therapeutically interfering with, the inflammatory loss of bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genistein is an isoflavone with oestrogenic activity that is present in a variety of soy products as a constituent of complex mixtures of bioactive compounds, whose matrix profiles play an important role in determining the overall oestrogenic bioactivity of genistein. We review data on how the profile of soy bioactive compounds can modulate genistein-stimulated oestrogen-dependent tumour growth. Our research has focused on the effects of dietary genistein on the growth of oestrogen (E)-dependent mammary tumours both in vitro and in vivo. Genistein enhances the proliferation of E-dependent human breast cancer tumour growth. In a similar manner, dietary genistein stimulates tumour growth in the chemically-induced (NMU) mammary cancer rodent model. Genistin, the glycoside of genistein, simulates growth similar to that of genistein and withdrawal of either genistein or genistin results in tumour regression. The extent of soy processing modulates the effects of dietary genistein in vivo as soy protein isolate, a highly purified and widely used source of protein that is processed to contain low, medium, and high amounts of isoflavones, stimulate the growth of the E-dependent mammary tumours in a dose dependent manner. In contrast to the more purified diets, studies with soy flour of equivalent genistein levels did not stimulate the growth of E-dependent breast cancer tumours in vivo. However, the size of these tumours also did not regress as is observed in control groups in which oestrogen and genistein have been withdrawn. The expression of the oestrogen-target genes of pS2, progesterone receptor, and cyclin D1 correlates with the growth of E-dependent tumours and has been consistently observed to be induced in response to treatment with dietary genistein. To evaluate whether dietary genistein interacts with current anti-oestrogen breast cancer therapies such as tamoxifen (TAM), we implanted E-dependent tumours into ovariectomized athymic mice and administered oestradiol, oestradiol plus TAM, or oestradiol, TAM, and dietary genistein. In these studies dietary genistein was able to negate the inhibitory effect of TAM on E-stimulated tumour growth. In summary, genistein can act as an oestrogen agonist resulting in proliferation of E-dependent human breast cancer tumours in vivo and its activity can be modulated by the presence of other bioactive components in complex soy foods. Additionally, dietary genistein can negate the inhibitory effects of TAM on E-stimulated growth of MCF-7 cell tumours implanted into ovariectomized athymic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disorders of bones and joints are the most common cause of severe long-term pain and disability around the world yet receive inadequate attention in many countries. Bone/joint health is absent from current health policy and the primary prevention/health promotion agenda in Maldives and diagnostic and curative infrastructure is very limited. In 2004, tentative evidence emerged indicating that degenerative bone and joint conditions may impose a large burden on community health. A study was undertaken amongst a representative community sample of women aged 15–50 to further investigate the issue. One third reported bone/joint problems; very high proportions manifested a range of osteoporosis risk factors, and sizeable numbers appear to be at elevated risk of osteoarthritis. Bone/joint health knowledge was very limited. The findings suggest strong potential for primary prevention on modifiable risk factors, need for research with other population groups, and development of screening and curative care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two rice cultivars, Xiushui 48 and S. Andrea, with significant difference in selenium (Se) concentrations in brown rice grains, were chosen to study the Se absorption and its mechanism in excised roots. The results showed that the high-selenium cultivar Xiushui 48 absorbed higher amounts of Na2SeO3 than low-selenium S. Andrea at different Se levels and treatment periods. It was found that Na2SO3 markedly inhibited Na2SeO3 absorption by the excised roots of both cultivars. This inhibition might be due to the competition for uptake on the fact that Na2SO3 might share a common uptake pathway with Na2SeO3. Treatment with ZnCl2 significantly decreased Na2SeO3 absorption of both cultivars possibly by inhibiting the activity of cysteine synthase. It was therefore postulated that the difference in cysteine synthase activity might be one of the reasons which resulted in difference in selenite absorption possibly between the two cultivars. Both HgCl2 and AgNO3 treatments can inhibit selenite absorption by rice roots greatly. We propose that selenite enters rice roots through aquaporins as the form of H2SeO3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A flow injection hydride generation graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometric (FI-HG-GFAAS) method was applied to the determination of Se in Se-doped and undoped cereals and bakery products. For the purpose of doping, the soils used for the cultivation of the cereals were dosed with Se-doped foliar fertilizers. The samples were dissolved in a mixture of HNO3 and H2O2 solutions using microwave-assisted digestion. The decomposition of H2Se generated from the sample solutions and the trapping of elemental Se were performed at a temperature of 300?°C on an Ir-pretreated integrated graphite platform of a transversally heated graphite atomizer (THGA). For release of the trapped Se within a fairly short atomization time (5?s), an atomization temperature of 2200?°C was observed to be optimal. The overall efficiency of hydride generation, transport and trapping was ~86%.The upper limit of the linear dynamic range of calibration was 10?µg?L-1, which corresponds to 0.5?µg?g-1 for solid samples. Recovery of the samples spiked with SeVI solutions was found to be 93±6% on average. The relative standard deviation of the determinations was less than 8%. The limit of detection was found to be 0.06?µg?L-1, corresponding to 3?ng?g-1 for solid samples. The accuracy of the method was verified with the use of IAEA-155 (whey powder) certified reference material. End-capped THGA tubes resulted in an extension of the linear calibration range compared to that of standard THGAs.The Se content in bakery products made of undoped cereals ranged from 7.7 to 68?ng?g-1 (wet weight) in 18 samples, whereas the Se content of the corresponding cereals was found to be below 100?ng?g-1 (wet weight). The Se level of cereals grown on soils treated with Se-doped fertilizers ranged from 128 to 1046?ng?g-1 (wet weight), and it depended linearly on the Se concentration of the corresponding foliar fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]