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Graphical abstract Abstract Chlorogenic acids (CGAs) are a group of phenolic compounds found in worldwide consumed beverages such as coffee and green tea. They are synthesized from an esterification reaction between cinnamic acids, including caffeic (CFA), ferulic and p-coumaric acids with quinic acid (QA), forming several mono- and di-esterified isomers. The most prevalent and studied compounds are 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA), 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA) and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), widely described as having antioxidant and cell protection effects. CGAs can also modulate glutamate release from microglia by a mechanism involving a decrease of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increased energy metabolism is highly associated with enhancement of ROS production and cellular damage. Glutamate can also be used as an energy source by glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) enzyme, providing α-ketoglutarate to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle for ATP synthesis. High GDH activity is associated with some disorders, such as schizophrenia and hyperinsulinemia/hyperammonemia syndrome. In line with this, our objective was to investigate the effect of CGAs on GDH activity. We show that CGAs and CFA inhibits GDH activity in dose-dependent manner, reaching complete inhibition at high concentration with IC50 of 52 μM for 3-CQA and 158.2 μM for CFA. Using live imaging confocal microscopy and microplate reader, we observed that 3-CQA and CFA can be transported into neuronal cells by an Na+-dependent mechanism. Moreover, neuronal cells treated with CGAs presented lower intracellular ATP levels. Overall, these data suggest that CGAs have therapeutic potential for treatment of disorders associated with high GDH activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world next to water and is obtained from the leaves Camellia sinensis . In recent years, the potential health benefits and effect mechanisms of tea have attracted a lot of interest. The potential health benefits of tea have been attributed to its various phenolic compounds with unique biological properties found in tea. These phenolic compounds are especially catechins and their derivatives, which constitute at most 30% of the dry weight of the tea. Tea is a new and effective strategy for reducing the severity of neurological diseases and for protecting against obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer (ovaryum, lung, skin, breast, endometrial, prostate, bladder, oral and colorectal cancers). Overall, the study that supports the health benefits of tea is increasing. But, the amounts of and the frequency of tea consumption that is associated with potential health benefits vary greatly from work to work and this situation creates difficulty in determining the optimal consumption amount and frequency that tea can exhibit health benefits. For this reason, we aimed to examine the health effect of the tea and how much consumption is to investigate whether it meets the claimed health benefits. Within that frame, there is a need for more studies on the possible health effects of tea. While studying on that effect, the effects of various doses, forms (in synthetic or natural product matrix), exposure in different periods (short or long term) on health should be studied. However, currently the conducted studies are promising for tea is a bioactive component like polyphenol, theaflavins, thearubigins, caffeine and mineral. In addition, although the fact intake with diet proved to be reliable at the end of the conducted acute and chronic toxicity test is another positive part, safety of bioactive component in tea should be supported through further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Phthalates and phenols are suspected endocrine disrupting chemicals that may adversely impact fetal outcomes following in utero exposure. Understanding predictors of exposure to phthalates and phenols during the prenatal period is important. Methods We measured urinary concentrations of 15 phthalate metabolites and 11 phenols in 446 pregnant women enrolled in the Healthy Start pre-birth cohort. Creatinine-adjusted geometric means (GM) for each urinary biomarker were compared across categories of potential sociodemographic and dietary predictors. To assess the independent relationship between each significant food group predictor and biomarker we used multivariable models, adjusted for sociodemographic predictors. Results The phthalate metabolites with the highest concentrations were monoethyl phthalate (GM: 41.1 µg/g creatinine) and monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate (GM: 20.5 µg/g creatinine). Benzophenone-3 (GM: 124.6 µg/g creatinine) and methyl paraben (GM: 119.9 µg/g creatinine) were the phenols with the highest concentrations. Concentrations of the metabolites of di-n-butyl phthalate and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate were significantly higher in younger, unmarried or unemployed mothers, those who were overweight or obese, those with lower educational attainment, or those of minority race/ethnicity (p-values < 0.05). Metabolites of di-n-butyl phthalate concentrations were 18% lower in those who consumed milk ≥ 7 times per week (95% CI: 30–4%). Benzophenone-3 and triclosan concentrations were significantly higher in older, married, or employed mothers, those with normal body mass index, higher educational attainment, higher household income, or who were non-Hispanic white (p-values < 0.05). Benzophenone-3 concentrations were 62% higher in those who consumed seafood ≥ 5 times per month (95% CI: 16–127%). Conclusions We observed differences in urinary concentrations of phthalates and phenol biomarkers by sociodemographic predictors in an ethnically diverse cohort of pregnant women. These results and future analyses from this prospective cohort will help inform targeted interventions to reduce exposure to these potential endocrine disrupting chemicals during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The aim of this work was to develop a puffed quinoa bar with beehive products of high content of phenolic compounds, based on acceptability and perception of consumers. A rotational central composite design of three variables (honey, pollen and propolis) was used for food product formulation. The responses to optimize were sensorial acceptability and polyphenol content. Next to acceptability a check-all-that-apply ( CATA) test was performed with 115 consumers. Preference maps were used to relate acceptability and sensorial attributes of bars that cause rejection or acceptance. RESULTS The experimental design determined that pollen and propolis significantly increased phenolic content but decreased acceptability of formulations. Preference maps established that attributes like astringency, bitter flavor, pungency and intense yellow color were associated with the low acceptability while attributes of sweetness and weak astringency were related to high acceptance of products. Range of polyphenol content determined in the widely accepted formulations was 2.15-2.91 g kg−1, significantly higher than commercial products. CONCLUSION The incorporation of beehive products, in quinoa bars, increased the total polyphenol content and the functional properties, but at the same time reduced the consumer acceptability. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn ( Zea mays L.) and common beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are alternative suitable ingredients for snacks, because of their content of bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds (PC) and oligosaccharides (OS). However, there is no information about the transformation of these compounds associated with food matrix during gastrointestinal digestion. Therefore, the objective of this work was to simulate the whole digestion process (mouth to colon) to estimate bioaccessibility and small intestine permeability of free PC and OS, and the antioxidant capacity of free PC. Digested nixtamalized corn-cooked common bean chips exhibited significant different quantities of free PC and OS, and higher antioxidant activity compared to methanolic extract. The free PC showed high values of apparent permeability coefficients (0.023–0.729 × 10 − 3 ), related with their absorption in the small intestine. Both free PC and OS were retained in the non-digestible fraction of chips (10.24–64.4%) and were able to reach the colon. Our results suggest the digestion potential to increase chip bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Additional studies are required to evaluate their in vivo effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugars, organic acids, carotenoids, tocopherols, chlorophylls, and phenolic compounds were quantified in fruit of 4 wild growing Prunus species (wild cherry, bird cherry, blackthorn, and mahaleb cherry) using HPLC-DAD-MSn. In wild Prunus, the major sugars were glucose and fructose, whereas malic and citric acids dominated among organic acids. The most abundant classes of phenolic compounds in the analyzed fruit species were anthocyanins, flavonols, derivatives of cinnamic acids, and flavanols. Two major groups of anthocyanins measured in Prunus fruits were cyanidin-3-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-glucoside. Flavonols were represented by 19 derivatives of quercetin, 10 derivatives of kaempferol, and 2 derivatives of isorhamnetin. The highest total flavonol content was measured in mahaleb cherry and bird cherry, followed by blackthorn and wild cherry fruit. Total phenolic content varied from 2373 (wild cherry) to 11053 mg GAE per kg (bird cherry) and ferric reducing antioxidant power antioxidant activity from 7.26 to 31.54 mM trolox equivalents per kg fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the patterns, variability, and predictors of urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations in 337 children from the Cincinnati, Ohio HOME Study. From 2003 to 2014, we collected two urine samples from women at 16 and 26 weeks of pregnancy and six urine samples from children at 1-5 and 8 years of age. We used linear mixed models to calculate intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) as a measure of within-person BPA variability and to identify sociodemographic and environmental predictors. For the 8-year visit, we used multivariable linear regression to explore associations between urinary BPA concentrations and exposure-related factors. We calculated daily intakes using equations estimating creatinine excretion rates and creatinine-standardized BPA concentrations. Urinary BPA concentrations, which decreased over childhood, had a low degree of reproducibility (ICC < 0.2). Estimated daily intakes decreased with age and were below the reference dose of 50 µg/kg body weight/day. BPA concentrations were positively associated with consuming food stored or heated in plastic, consuming canned food and beverages, and handling cash register receipts. Our results suggest that there are multiple sources of BPA exposure in young children. Etiological studies should collect serial urine samples to accurately classify BPA exposure and consider sociodemographic and environmental factors as possible confounders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have investigated the environmental occurrence, human exposure, and toxicity of bisphenol A (BPA). Following stringent regulations on the production and usage of BPA, several bisphenol analogues have been produced as a replacement for BPA in various applications. The present review outlines the current state of knowledge on the occurrence of bisphenol analogues (other than BPA) in the environment, consumer products and foodstuffs, human exposure and biomonitoring, and toxicity. Whereas BPA was still the major bisphenol analogue found in most environmental monitoring studies, BPF and BPS were also frequently detected. Elevated concentrations of BPAF, BPF, and BPS (i.e., similar to or greater than that of BPA) have been reported in the abiotic environment and human urine from some regions. Many analogues exhibit endocrine disrupting effects, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, dioxin-like effects, and neurotoxicity in laboratory studies. BPAF, BPB, BPF, and BPS have been shown to exhibit estrogenic and/or antiandrogenic activities similar to or even greater than that of BPA. Knowledge gaps and research needs have been identified, which include the elucidation of environmental occurrences, persistence, and fate of bisphenol analogues (other than BPA), sources and pathways for human exposure, effects on reproductive systems and the mammary gland, mechanisms of toxicity from coexposure to multiple analogues, metabolic pathways and products, and the impact of metabolic modification on toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chickpea and wheat seeds were processed using laboratory-scale equipment of instant controlled pressure drop process ( DIC) to produce nutritious snack products. In this study, we present the results concerning the effect of various DIC-processing variables, moisture content, steam pressure and processing time on some physicochemical (water absorption ( WAI) and water solubility ( WSI) indices) and nutritional properties (total phenolic and phytic acid contents, starch gelatinisation and digestibility values). Among the DIC-processing conditions, processing pressure and time had the highest significance rather than the moisture content. DIC process increased the total phenolic content of chickpea by approximately twofold, whereas it usually decreased in that of wheat. Severe processing conditions such as long processing time and high steam pressures generally led to an increase in WAI, WSI and starch gelatinisation as well as phenolic content, but a decrease in the antinutritional factor of phytic acid content within the working limit of the study. DIC treatment significantly increased the level of starch gelatinisation and digestibility of snack products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To study the antimicrobial activity of actinomycetes isolated from sabkha of Kenadsa and identification of the isolate interesting. Methods Eighteen strains were isolated, using four culture media from sebkha of Kenadsa (Bechar, Southwestern Algeria). Screening of antimicrobial activity consisted of two steps: in primary screening, antibacterial activity was determined by using the agar plug method against test strains; in secondary screening, better isolate which showed a good activity in the first screening was selected to extract antimicrobial substances. The antimicrobial activities of extracts were evaluated by using Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Partial characterization of antimicrobial products was performed on the basis of chemical revelations, UV–vis spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy. The identification of isolate interesting was performed through morphological, chemical, biochemical and physiological characteristics. Results All isolates showed antimicrobial activity against at least one microorganism test. One isolate, LAM143cG3, was selected for its broad spectrum and high antimicrobial activity. The isolate LAM143cG3 was identified as Spirillospora sp. The comparison between the species of this genus ( Spirillospora rubra and Spirillospora albida ) and our isolate indicated the existence of several physiological and biochemical differences which led us to suppose that this was a new member of this genus. Primary characterization of antimicrobial substances produced by the isolate LAM143cG3 indicated the presence of amines and phenols. The UV–vis spectrum suggested a non-polyenic nature of substances secreted by our isolate, while infrared confirmed the presence of amine groups. Conclusions The result of the present study revealed that sebkha of Kenadsa was rich in rare actinomycetes, that secreted interesting antimicrobial substance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenols and parabens are used in a multitude of consumer products resulting in ubiquitous human exposure. Animal and in vitro studies suggest that exposure to these compounds may be related to a number of adverse health outcomes, as well as potential mediators such as oxidative stress and inflammation. We examined urinary phenol (bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan (TCS), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), 2,4-dichlorophenol (24-DCP), 2,5-dichlorophenol (25-DCP)) and paraben (butyl paraben (B-PB), methyl paraben (M-PB), propyl paraben (P-PB)) concentrations measured three times during pregnancy in relation to markers of oxidative stress and inflammation among participants in the Puerto Rico Testsite for Exploring Contamination Threats (PROTECT) project. Serum markers of inflammation (c-reactive protein (CRP), IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) were measured twice during pregnancy ( n = 105 subjects, 187 measurements) and urinary markers of oxidative stress (8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (OHdG) and isoprostane) were measured three times during pregnancy ( n = 54 subjects, 146 measurements). We used linear mixed models to assess relationships between natural log-transformed exposure and outcome biomarkers while accounting for within individual correlation across study visits. After adjustment for urinary specific gravity, study visit, maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, and maternal education, an interquartile range (IQR) increase in urinary BPA was associated with 21% higher OHdG ( p = 0.001) and 29% higher isoprostane ( p = 0.0002), indicating increased oxidative stress. The adjusted increase in isoprostane per IQR increase in marker of exposure was 17% for BP-3, 27% for B-PB, and 20% for P-PB (all p < 0.05). An IQR increase in triclosan (TCS) was associated with 31% higher serum concentrations of IL-6 ( p = 0.007), a pro-inflammatory cytokine. In contrast, IQR increases in BP-3 and B-PB were significantly associated with 16% and 18% lower CRP, a measure of systemic inflammation. Our findings suggest that exposure to BPA, select parabens, and TCS during pregnancy may be related to oxidative stress and inflammation, potential mechanisms by which exposure to these compounds may influence birth outcomes and other adverse health effects, but additional research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a fast, selective and sensitive on-line LC/LC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of nine parabens and seven environmental phenols in urine. Parabens are widely used as antimicrobial preservatives. Bisphenol A, triclosan, triclocarban, 2-phenylphenol, and benzophenones are used inter alia in disinfectants, sunscreens and in polymers. Some of these substances are suspected endocrine disruptors. Limits of quantification and analytical quality criteria fully met the needs for determining exposure levels occurring in the general population. We analyzed 157 spot urine samples from the general German population (59 females, 39 males and 59 children). For the parabens, we found methyl, ethyl and n -propyl paraben with high detection rates (77–98%), followed by n -butyl (36%), iso -butyl (17%), iso -propyl (3%) and benzyl paraben (3%). We detected no pentyl and heptyl paraben. Urinary concentrations were highest for methyl paraben (median 24.5 μg/L; 95th percentile 379 μg/L) followed by ethyl (1.4 μg/L; 35.2 μg/L) and n -propyl paraben (1.2 μg/L; 68.1 μg/L). Other environmental phenols with high detection rates were BPA (95%), triclosan (45%) and benzophenone 1 and 3 (26%). For most of the parabens/environmental phenols we found higher urinary levels in females than in males or children, probably due to differences in (personal care) product use. However, high levels (in the mg/L range) were also observed in children. Exposure to the above substances is occurring worldwide. Differences between countries do seem to exist and might be caused by different product compositions or different use habits. Human metabolism data is urgently needed to extrapolate from urinary biomarker levels to doses actually taken up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the Mediterranean, the discharge of urban effluents in coastal areas adversely affects Posidonia oceanica, since it induces nutrient enrichment and a decrease of water clarity, but data from the southern Mediterranean are very sparse. In this paper we examine the differences in P. oceanica parameters from a disturbed site (Bou Ismaïl) and a reference site (Kouali), at meadow level (shoot density, meadow cover), at individual level (leaf biometry, A coefficient, epiphytic index) and at biochemical level (total phenols). The differences were examined at the upper limit (−5m) and the lower limit (−20m), during an annual cycle. Results indicated a significantly lower mean meadow cover at the upper limits of the disturbed site compared to the reference site. The leaf length and leaf area were also lower at the disturbed site, and this difference was recorded all year round at the upper limit. The epiphytic index and the A coefficient of adult leaves were higher only in July and October at the upper limits of the disturbed site. In contrast, total phenol concentration of the leaves did not show any response to disturbances related to urban effluents. However, the biosynthesis of phenolic substances at the two sites was significantly higher in the intermediate leaves, in winter, when growth slows down. The unexpected higher value of total phenol concentration recorded in the intermediate leaves and sheaths in spring at the reference site is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study aimed to estimate the total dietary antioxidant capacity (TDAC) taken in by the Brazilian population. For analysis, the 36 most consumed foods in Brazil were evaluated. The foods were prepared according to their usual form of consumption and submitted to in vitro digestion. The daily intake of phenolics and flavonoids was estimated to be 2.31 ± 0.12 g and 374.12 ± 18.17 mg, respectively. The TDAC, evaluated as the ferric-reducing antioxidant power and as the trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, was 10.3 and 9.4 mmol/d, respectively. The beverages, especially coffee, followed by beans, rice and salt bread were the most important sources of antioxidants. The average intake of phenolics and flavonoids of the Brazilian diet was comparatively higher than that estimated for several other countries. However, the contribution of fruits and vegetables to the phenolic intake and TDAC was minimal (4-6%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a sensitive method for simultaneous determination of bisphenol A (BPA), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), 4-tert-octylphenol (t-OP),ortho-phenylphenol (OPP), four parabens (methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl parabens) and five chlorophenols (2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP), 2,4,5-trichlorophenol (2,4,5-triclorophenol), 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP), and triclosan (TCS)), in human urine by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) mass spectrometry (MS). Samples were processed using enzymatic deconjugation of glucuronides followed by solid phase extraction (SPE) on a C18 cartridge and the eluate was concentrated. Analytes were separated by reversed-phase HPLC and then detected by atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation (APCI) MS and quantified by isotope dilution method. We describe details for optimisation of each step of the procedure. The sample treatment steps are straightforward and not labour-intensive and, therefore, permit a high sample throughput with excellent prospects for automation. This method shows low inter-day variation, and detection limits for most of the compounds are below 1 ng/mL in 1 mL of urine. The method accuracy was also verified by the analysis of proficiency testing urine samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan (TCS), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), dichoro- and phenyl phenols are industrial chemicals present in numerous consumer products such as polycarbonate plastics, preservatives in personal care products, sun screens, pesticides and fungicides, respectively, and they are all suspected endocrine disrupters. In this study the urinary excretion of eight phenols in Danish children recruited from the general population were investigated. One 24h urine and two consecutive first morning samples were collected from each of 129 healthy Danish children and adolescents (6–21 years). The concentrations of urinary phenols were analyzed by a new on-line TurboFlow-liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method. Most of the analyzed phenols were detectable in more than 80% of the 24h urine samples and the median concentration of BPA, TCS, BP-3, 2,4-dichorophenol and 2,5-dichorophenol (analyzed as ∑DCP), 2-phenylphenol and 4-phenylphenol were 1.37, 1.45, 1.41, 0.65, 0.36 and 0.53ng/mL, respectively. The ranges of the excreted TCS and BP-3 were wide; from below limit of detection to maximum levels of 955ng/mL and 162ng/mL, respectively, while the other phenols were excreted in a more narrow range with maximum levels below 25ng/mL. Concentrations in first morning urine were in general higher than in 24h urine and comprised 30–47% of the absolute amount excreted during 24h. The youngest children aged 6–10 years had a significantly higher urinary BPA concentration (ng/mL) and also a relatively higher daily BPA excretion (ng/kg bw/24h) than the older children and adolescents. The opposite pattern was observed for TCS, BP-3 and ∑DCP for which urinary levels increased significantly with age. No gender difference or associations to pubertal development were observed. In conclusion, our study showed that Danish children were exposed to multiple phenols simultaneously. Small children were relatively more exposed to BPA than older children, while higher exposures to TCS, BP-3 and ∑DCP were seen among adolescents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: To investigate the effect of phenolic environmental estrogens on uterine leiomyoma from the perspective of clinical epidemiology. Methods: Urine and blood samples were collected from Han women with uterine leiomyoma and women without uterine leiomyoma, living in Nanjing, China, between September 2011 and February 2013. A total of 156 urine samples and 214 blood samples were collected from the uterine leiomyoma group and 106 urine samples and 126 blood plasma samples from the control group. Bisphenol A (BPA), nonylphenol (NP) and octylphenol (OP) concentrations were determined by solid-phase extraction (SPE) coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Results: Phenolic environmental estrogens in the uterine leiomyoma and control groups were compared based on: gravida>3 and gravida ≤ 3. In participants with gravida>3, urine OP concentration was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the uterine leiomyoma group than in the control group. In participants with gravida ≤ 3, urine NP concentration was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the uterine leiomyoma group compared to controls. Despite obstetric history, urine BPA mean exposure concentration was significantly (P<0.05) different between uterine leiomyoma group and control group. The urine BPA concentration was not significantly (P>0.05) different between gravida>3 and gravida ≤ 3 patients. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in plasma concentrations of BPA, OP and NP between the leiomyoma group and control group. Mean exposure concentration and range of distribution of BPA, OP and NP plasma concentration differed between the uterine leiomyoma and control group. Conclusion: Exposure level of phenolic environmental estrogens in human was related with leiomyoma tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halogenated phenolic compounds (HPCs) including hydroxylated polychlorobiphenyls (OH-PCBs) and hydroxylated polybromodiphenyl-ethers (OH-PBDEs) can be persistent organic pollutant (POP) metabolites or natural marine compounds. Structurally similar to thyroid hormones (THs), they are retained in blood, transported through selective barriers, and the cause of endocrine and neuronal POP effects. This study presents a meta-analysis of HPC burdens in human and wildlife tissues, including OH-PCBs, OH-PBDEs, Pentachlorophenol, and polybromophenols. HPC blood plasma levels were also compared to known in vitro and in vivo toxicological effect concentrations. Blood, highly perfused, and fetal tissues contained the highest levels of HPCs. Plasma concentrations of analyzed OH-PCBs/PBDEs ranged from 0.1 to 100 nM in humans and up to 240, 454, 800, and 7650 nM for birds, fish, cetaceans, and other mammals, respectively. These concentrations fully fall within the in vitro effect concentrations reported in literature for HPCs of 0.05-10000 nM. We strongly advise further study of HPC blood levels in the general population, children, and fetal tissue to establish background levels and the risk at sensitive development stages. As not all HPCs are, or can be, chemically analyzed, the application of additional bioanalysis might reveal an even greater toxicological relevance of HPCs. In addition, metabolic activation should always be included within in vitro hazard assessment of POPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Widespread human exposure to phenols has been documented recently, and some phenols which are potential endocrine disruptors have demonstrated adverse effects on male reproduction in animal and in vitro studies. However, implications about exposure to phenols and male infertility are scarce in humans. Case–control study of 877 idiopathic infertile men and 713 fertile controls was conducted. Urinary levels of bisphenol A, benzophenone-3, pentachlorophenol, triclosan, 4-tert-octylphenol (4-t-OP), 4-n-octylphenol (4-n-OP) and 4-n-nonylphenol (4-n-NP) and semen parameters were measured. After multivariate adjustment, we found 4-t-OP, 4-n-OP and 4-n-NP exposure was associated with idiopathic male infertility (p-value for trend: <0.0001, 0.014 and 0.001, respectively). Aside from these associations, 4-t-OP and 4-n-NP exposure was also associated with idiopathic male infertility with abnormal semen parameters. Moreover, we observed significant associations between sum alkylphenols (APs) exposure and idiopathic male infertility. There were no relationships between exposure to other phenols and idiopathic male infertility in the present study. Our study provides the first evidence that exposure to APs (4-t-OP, 4-n-OP and 4-n-NP) is associated with idiopathic male infertility. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Puerto Rico has higher rates of a range of endocrine-related diseases and disorders compared to the United States. However, little is known to date about human exposures to known or potential endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in Puerto Rico. We recruited 105 pregnant women in Northern Puerto Rico who provided urine samples and questionnaire data at three times (18 ± 2, 22 ± 2, and 26 ± 2 weeks) during gestation. We measured the urinary concentrations of five phenols and three parabens: 2,4-dichlorophenol (24-DCP), 2,5-dichlorophenol (25-DCP), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan (TCS), butyl paraben (B-PB), methyl paraben (M-PB), and propyl paraben (P-PB). The frequent detection of these chemicals suggests that exposure is highly prevalent among these Puerto Rican pregnant women. Urinary concentrations of TCS, BP-3, and 25-DCP were higher than among women of reproductive age in the US general population, while concentrations of BPA, 24-DCP, and parabens were similar. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) varied widely between biomarkers; BPA had the lowest ICC (0.24) and BP-3 had the highest (0.62), followed by 25-DCP (0.49) and TCS (0.47). We found positive associations between biomarker concentrations with self-reported use of liquid soap (TCS), sunscreen (BP-3), lotion (BP-3 and parabens), and cosmetics (parabens). Our results can inform future epidemiology studies and strategies to reduce exposure to these chemicals or their precursors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Levodopa (L-DOPA) is widely used for symptomatic management in Parkinson''s disease. We recently showed that (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a tea polyphenol, not only inhibits L-DOPA methylation, but also protects against oxidative hippocampal neurodegeneration. In the present study, we sought to determine several other common dietary phenolics, namely, tea catechins [(+)-catechin and (−)-epicatechin] and a representative flavonoid (quercetin), for their ability to modulate L-DOPA methylation and to protect against oxidative hippocampal injury. A combination of in vitro biochemical assays, cell culture-based mechanistic analyses, and in vivo animal models was used. While both tea catechins and quercetin strongly inhibit human liver catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT)-mediated O-methylation of L-DOPA in vitro, only (+)-catechin exerts a significant inhibition of L-DOPA methylation in both peripheral compartment and striatum in rats. The stronger in vivo effect of (+)-catechin on L-DOPA methylation compared to the other dietary compounds is due to its better bioavailability in vivo. In addition, (+)-catechin strongly reduces glutamate-induced oxidative cytotoxicity in HT22 mouse hippocampal neurons in vitro through inactivation of the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. Administration of (+)-catechin also exerts a strong neuroprotective effect in the kainic acid-induced oxidative hippocampal neurodegeneration model in rats. In conclusion, (+)-catechin is a dietary polyphenolic that may have beneficial effects in L-DOPA-based treatment of Parkinson patients by inhibiting L-DOPA methylation plus reducing oxidative neurodegeneration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The ability of grape seed extracts to bind to bovine serum albumin (BSA) and α-amylase was studied by fluorescence quenching of protein intrinsic fluorescence and nephelometry. The influence of grape seed ripeness on astringency was also evaluated. From the spectra obtained, the modified Sterm–Volmer (K app) and the bimolecular quenching constants were calculated. Results showed that grape seed extracts had good affinity for proteins. The association strength of tannin–protein interactions varied with changes in tannin structure associated with the degree of ripeness affecting the binding/quenching process. In all cases studied, higher values of K app were obtained in samples at harvest which have greater ability to bind to proteins than have samples at post-veraison time. Nephelometric assays show the same trend as do fluorescence quenching studies. A possible explanation for this is that, as seeds ripen, their tannins increase in molecular mass, which relates to an increase in hydrophobicity of the molecules, and this increases protein affinity. However, that is contrary to the reported decrease in astringency of grape seeds during maturity. This indicates that tannin–protein interactions are not the only explanation for the complex sensations of astringency of grape seeds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, essential oil and various extracts (hexane, petroleum ether, acetone, ethanol, methanol and water) of Eucalyptus gilii were screened for their chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The essential oil chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID), respectively. Thirty four compounds were identified, corresponding to 99.5% of the total essential oil. Tannins [104.9-251.3 g catechin equivalent (CE)/Kg dry mass], flavonoids [3.3-34.3 g quercetin equivalent (QE)/Kg dry mass], phenolics [4.7-216.6 g gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/Kg dry mass] and anthocyannins [1.2-45.3 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalent (C3GE)/Kg dry mass] of various extracts were investigated. Free radical scavenging capacity of all samples was determinedt. In the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the IC50 of essential oil was 163.5 ± 10.7 mg/L and in the 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS) assay, it was 94.7 ± 7.1 mg/L. Among the various extracts, the water extract showed the best result (IC50 = 11.4 ± 0.6 mg/L) in the DPPH assay which was comparable to vitamin C (IC50 = 4.4 ± 0.2 mg/L). The antimicrobial activities were evaluated against different bacterial and fungal strains. Gram positive bacteria were found to be more sensitive to the essential oil and extracts than Gram negative ones. Anthocyanins seem to have a major effect on the growth of Bacillus subtilis (R2 = 0.79). A significant antifungal activity was observed against the yeast and fungi. Correlations between chemical composition and antioxidant activities were studied and R2 values were about 0.96 for the effect of phenolics on the DPPH assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hologram QSAR models were developed for a series of 36 inhibitors (29 training set and seven test set compounds) of acetyl/butyrylcholinesterase (AChE/BChE) enzymes, an attractive molecular target for Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment. The HQSAR models (N = 29) exhibited significant cross-validated (AChE, q2 = 0.787; BChE, q2 = 0. 904) and non-cross-validated (AChE, r2 = 0.965; BChE, r2 = 0.952) correlation coefficients. The models were used to predict the inhibitory potencies of the test set compounds, and agreement between the experimental and predicted values was verified, exhibiting a powerful predictive capability. Contribution maps show that structural fragments containing aromatic moieties and long side chains increase potency. Both the HQSAR models and the contribution maps should be useful for the further design of novel, structurally related cholinesterase inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Neurodegenerative disorders are strongly associated with oxidative stress, which is induced by reactive oxygen species including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Epidemiological studies have suggested that coffee may be neuroprotective, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect have not been clarified. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and the phenolic phytochemical chlorogenic acid (5-O-caffeoylquinic acid), which is present in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, against oxidative neuronal death. H2O2-induced apoptotic nuclear condensation in neuronal cells was strongly inhibited by pretreatment with caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or chlorogenic acid. Pretreatment with caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or chlorogenic acid inhibited the H2O2-induced down-regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL while blocking H2O2-induced pro-apoptotic cleavage of caspase-3 and pro-poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. We also found that caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and chlorogenic acid induced the expression of NADPH:quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in neuronal cells, suggesting that these substances protect neurons from H2O2-induced apoptosis by up-regulation of this antioxidant enzyme. The neuroprotective efficacy of caffeinated coffee was similar to that of decaffeinated coffee, indicating that active compounds present in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, such as chlorogenic acid, may drive the effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high production-volume chemical used in the manufacture of a wide variety of consumer products. However it is also a ubiquitous contaminant that can interfere with endocrine systems of wildlife and humans. China is the “world factory” and the Pearl River Delta is the major manufacturing center and is consequently polluted. Concentrations of BPA in meats of marketable fish had not been previously reported for this region. In the study upon which we report here concentrations of BPA were determined in 20 common species of freshwater and marine fish, collected from markets in Hong Kong, SAR, China. A comprehensive analytical method based on SPE extraction and liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC–ESI–MS/MS) was developed, validated and applied. The method limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.5 and 1.25ngg−1 dw, respectively. BPA was detected in 19 species of fish at concentrations, ranging from 0.5 to 2.0ngg−1 ww. Average daily BPA intake per person ranged from 1.1×102 ngd−1 for marine fish and 2.2×102 ngd−1 for freshwater fish. Concentrations of BPA in fish from Hong Kong markets unlikely would be causing adverse population-level effects in humans. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study sought to characterize the distribution of phenols and antioxidant activities in Garcinia Indica fruit extract and their inhibition of cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress in rat's brain. The total Phenol content and antioxidant activities of Garcinia Indica fruit extract were determined in vitro and in vivo. The Results of the study revealed that intraperitoneal administration of cyclophosphamide (75mg/kg of body weight) caused a Significant increase (P<0.05) in the malondialdehyde (MDA) content of the brain; however, there was a significant Decrease (P<0.05) in the brain MDA content, in those of rats treated with Garcinia Indica fruit extract showed a higher Inhibitory effect. In addition, treatment of the Garcinia Indica fruit extract also caused a dose-dependent inhibition of Serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin; likewise, treatment of the Garcinia Indica fruit extract inhibited MDA production. The higher Inhibition of oxidative stress in brain and serum enzymes and metabolites by the Garcinia Indica fruit extract could be attributed to its significantly higher (P<0.05) total phenol content, reducing power and free-radical scavenging ability. Therefore, treatment of Garcinia Indica fruit extract could prevent cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress in brain; although the Garcinia Indica fruit extract is a better protectant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sources of human exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) are not well characterized. Little is known about the presence of BPA in paper products, especially in paper currencies, and its implications for human exposure. In this work, paper currencies from 21 countries (N = 156) were analyzed for BPA, which was measured in 19 mm punches taken from three spots on the paper currencies. BPA was found in all paper currencies at concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 82.7 μg/g (mean 4.94; median 1.02) and the concentrations in samples taken from the middle portion of the currencies were higher than those taken from peripheral portions. We also examined the transfer of BPA from thermal receipt paper to currencies by placing currencies in contact with thermal receipt papers for 24 h in a wallet. Concentrations of BPA dramatically increased after 24 h of contact with thermal receipt papers, suggesting that thermal receipt paper is an important source of BPA in paper currencies. The estimated daily intake of BPA through dermal absorption from handling paper currencies was on the order of a few nanograms per day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleocanthal, a major phenolic compound in extra-virgin olive oil with antiinflammatory properties, elicits an unusual oral pungency sensed almost exclusively in the throat. This contrasts with most other common oral irritants, such as cinnamaldehyde, capsaicin, and alcohol, which irritate mucus membranes throughout the oral cavity. Here, we show that this rare irritation pattern is a consequence of both the specificity of oleocanthal for a single sensory receptor and the anatomical restriction of this sensory receptor to the pharynx, within the oral cavity. We demonstrate, in vitro, that oleocanthal selectively activates the hTRPA1 channel in HEK 293 cells and that its ability to excite the trigeminal nervous system in rodents requires a functional TRPA1. Moreover, we similarly demonstrate that the over-the-counter analgesic, ibuprofen, which elicits the same restricted pharyngeal irritation as oleocanthal, also specifically excites rodent sensory neurons via TRPA1. Using human sensory psychophysical studies and immunohistochemical TRPA1 analyses of human oral and nasal tissues, we observe an overlap of the anatomical distribution of TRPA1 and the regions irritated by oleocanthal in humans. These results suggest that a TRPA1 (ANKTM1) gene product mediates the tissue sensitivity to oleocanthal within the oral cavity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that, despite the fact that oleocanthal possesses the classic electrophilic reactivity of many TRPA1 agonists, it does not use the previously identified activation mechanism via covalent cysteine modification. These findings provide an anatomical and molecular explanation for a distinct oral sensation that is elicited by oleocanthal and ibuprofen and that is commonly experienced around the world when consuming many extra-virgin olive oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The influence of ultraviolet irradiation (UV) on some quality attributes (colour, pH, soluble solids content, formol index, total phenolics, sugars and vitamin C) and enzymatic activities (polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and pectinolytic enzymes) of fresh apple juice was investigated. Apple juices made from four different varieties (Golden, Starking, Fuji and King David) were irradiated during 120min with a high-pressure mercury lamp of 400W that emits in a range between 250 and 740nm with a resulting incident energy of 3.88·10−7 E·min−1. The treatment was effective in the inactivation of the assayed enzymes. Polyphenol oxidase was inactivated in 100min, while peroxidase was completely destroyed in only 15min in all the four varieties. No variations were observed in pH, soluble solids content, formol index, total phenolics and sugars. The colour of the juice made from King David was unvariable during all the experiment. In the ones made from Golden, Starking and Fuji, UV radiation impaired some of the pigments present in the juice, either initially present or the ones formed later. This fact can be especially observed in the increase of the CIELab parameter L*, which increased from 23.2 to 24.6 in Fuji juice. The content of vitamin C in juices from Golden, Starking and Fuji slightly changed during the experiment, decreasing a 4.0% in Fuji juice, 5.7% in Golden one and 5.6% in Starking one. Meanwhile, in the juice from King David the loss was 70.0%. This significant difference can be attributed to the lack of pigmentation of this juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-blind, placebo-controlled, and randomized trial study was carried out with 16 healthy volunteers (7 men and 5 women). The test group ingested an encapsulated almond skin phenolic extract (884 mg of total polyphenols/dose) containing flavan-3-ols, flavonols, and flavanones, whereas the placebo group ingested microcrystalline cellulose. Our aim in this study was to determine changes in the urinary excretion of conjugated and microbial-derived phenolic metabolites before )-2 to 0 h) and after (0-2, 2-6, 6-10, and 10-24 h) intake of the almond polyphenols compared with the placebo group. For the test group, maximum urinary excretion of (epi)catechin and naringenin conjugates derived from phase II metabolism was attained at 2-6 h after consumption of the almond skin extract and excretions differed from the placebo group during this time period (P = 0.0001). However, excretion of conjugated metabolites of isorhamnetin was highest at 10-24 h and did not differ from the placebo group during this time (P> 0.05). Hydroxyphenylvalerolactones reached maximum urinary levels at 6-10 h after consumption of almond polyphenols, and excretion differed from the placebo group during this time period (P = 0.0004). For the test group, excretions of phenolic acids (hydroxyphenylpropionic, hydroxyphenylacetic, hydroxybenzoic, and hydroxycinnamic acids) did not differ from the placebo group at any time period of urine collection (P> 0.05). The findings presented in this work provide evidence concerning the bioavailability of almond skin polyphenols considering the effects of both phase II and microbial metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The amounts and composition of saliva produced in parotid glands can be influenced by dietary biologically active substances. Among phenolic compounds naturally present in some feedstuffs, particularly condensed tannins and hydrolysable tannins and derivates appear to play a role for the induction of Proline Rich Protein secretion in the parotid saliva of some animal species: this might be considered as a first evolutionary defence mechanism against the protein precipitating activity of tannins, preferably bond to proline and histatins in saliva. This is the first paper to report the preliminary results on the effects of full ripe acorns (Q. pubescens) polyphenols measured as Tannic Acid Equivalents on the parotid gland of growing pigs. A total of 8 growing pigs were divided into 2 experimental groups (each n=4): the control group was fed a conventional complete diet for pigs (pelleted; 890g DM/kg; based on cereals and soybean extraction meal). The acorn-fed group was offered a combined diet, 70% of ripe whole acorns shred (612g DM/kg of fresh matter, 0.516g TAE/kg DM) and 30% of the complete diet. One additional pig was fed the experimental diet for 24h only. All 8 animals from the 2 experimental groups were sacrificed at 1week after consumption, the additional pig, 24h after consumption. Both parotid glands of each pig were removed and weighed. Maximum length and width were measured and the right parotids were used in toto to determine dry matter, crude protein and total proline content. Each left parotid gland was processed for microscopic check. Increased size (+53.8% length; +19.9% width), mass (+68.5% fresh weight) and proline content (+33.8% based on DM) were observed in animals fed the 70% acorns diet after 7days. These results inspire to perform further investigations on the rapid adaption of pigs to counteract the effects of tannins in whole acorns as found after only one day of exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effects of cooking and a combination of marinating (chicken) and cooking, on the lipophilic (LAA), hydrophilic (HAA), total (TAA) antioxidant activities and total phenolic contents of seven popular herb- and spice-based marinating sauces were determined using ABTS/HRP decolorisation assay and Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, respectively. Marinating chicken prior to cooking had the greatest effect on antioxidant activity and phenolic contents. It reduced the HAA (46–75%), TAA (45–70%), aqueous phenol (31–83%) and total phenols (45–71%), but increased or decreased the LAA (+7 to +98%, or −26 to −53%) and organic phenolic contents (+27 to +100% or −30 to −93%), respectively, in all seven sauces. Even though a large percentage of the antioxidant activity was lost following marinating and cooking, both sesame ginger teriyaki and jerk sauces retained very high antioxidant activities (96 and 98μmol Trolox equivalents/mL sauce, respectively) and could be very good sources of antioxidants in the diet. These results indicate that marinating and cooking significantly reduce the antioxidant activities of marinating sauces, and consequently reduce the amounts of antioxidant available to the consumer from this source. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer crucial for the production of polycarbonate (PC). Recently, it has been verified that BPA is able to migrate from PC baby bottles into food simulants and numerous studies indicate that BPA may affect human health. In this work, five different detergents and bleach were tested to verify if they were able increasing the BPA release from the PC. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection (FLD) and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were used to quantify and identify BPA. Of all detergents tested, only with one was not detected a BPA concentration higher than the control. In the worst case, BPA levels detected were about 500 times higher than the control and the concentration kept high even after rinsing the PC samples three times. In the case of bleach, while it was in contact with the PC, the BPA released was not detected. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We present two approaches to estimate blood concentrations of Bisphenol A (BPA). Simple kinetic principles were applied to calculate steady state plasma concentrations. A physiologically based model was used to simulate the blood concentration time profile in several age groups exploring the influence of not yet fully developed metabolic capacity on the blood concentrations in the newborn. Both approaches gave concordant results and are in excellent agreement with experimental results [Völkel, W., Colnot, T., Csanady, G.A., Filser, J.G., Dekant, W., 2002. Metabolism and kinetics of bisphenol A in humans at low doses following oral administration. Chem. Res. Toxicol. 15, 1281–1287]. The predictions also agree with published results obtained with a different physiologically based model. According to model simulations, BPA is present in the blood of the normal population at concentrations several orders of magnitude lower than most measurements reported in the literature. At the same external exposure level, the newborn is predicted to have 3 times greater blood concentration than the adult. This is due to the not yet fully developed glucuronidation activity in the newborn, not fully compensated by the unimpaired sulfation pathway. For the highest measured external BPA exposure, the predicted blood concentrations of 2.6pg/ml (steady state concentration) and 8.2pg/ml (peak concentration) in the adult are lower than the in vitro concentrations at which inhibiting adiponectin release from human adipocytes and stimulation of β-cell production and secretion were observed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract Purpose  The maximum flux of solutes penetrating the epidermis has been known to depend predominantly on solute molecular weight. Here we sought to establish the mechanistic dependence of maximum flux on other solute physicochemical parameters. Methods  Maximum fluxes, stratum corneum solubilities and estimated diffusivities through human epidermis were therefore determined for 10 phenols with similar molecular weights and hydrogen bonding but varying in lipophilicity. Results  Maximum flux and stratum corneum solubilities of the phenolic compounds both showed a bilinear dependence on octanol-water partition coefficient (P), with solutes having a maximum solubility in the stratum corneum when 2.7PP. Stratum corneum-water partition coefficients and epidermal permeability coefficients were consistent with previously reported data. Conclusion  A key finding is that the convex dependence of maximum flux on lipophilicity arises primarily from variations in stratum corneum solubility, and not from diffusional or partitioning barrier effects at the stratum corneum–viable epidermis interface for the more lipophilic phenols. Our data support a solute structure-skin transport model for aqueous solutions in which permeation rates depend on both partitioning and diffusivity: partitioning is related to P, and diffusivity to solute size and hydrogen bonding. (199 words) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Varietal differences in the total phenolic content and astringency in the skin and flesh were determined among the cultivars and local collections of hardy kiwifruit with a ploidy variance found in Japan. The average values of the total phenolic content in the skin and flesh were 2.66 and 0.18g100g−1 FW, respectively. There were large varietal differences in the total phenolic content in the skin in the range of 1.3–5.0g100g−1 FW. Kochi (tetraploid), while Gassan and ‘Mitsuko’ (hexaploid) contained a larger amount of total phenolics. High astringency was found in Gassan, ‘Mitsuko’ and ‘Hoko’ (hexaploids) and Kochi. HPLC analysis showed that the major components of phenolics in the flesh were (+)-catechin, chlorogenic acid, rutin, (−)-epicatechin and quercetin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

BACKGROUND: The capability of benzophenone-3 (BP-3) to absorb and dissipate ultraviolet radiation facilitates its use as a sunscreen agent. BP-3 has other uses in many consumer products (e.g., as fragrance and flavor enhancer, photoinitiator, ultraviolet curing agent, polymerization inhibitor). OBJECTIVES: Our goal was to assess exposure to BP-3 in a representative sample of the U.S. general population ≥ 6 years of age. METHODS: Using automated solid-phase extraction coupled to high-performance liquid chromatography--tandem mass spectrometry, we analyzed 2,517 urine samples collected as part of the 2003--2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. RESULTS: We detected BP-3 in 96.8% of the samples. The geometric mean and 95th percentile concentrations were 22.9 µg/L (22.2 µg/g creatinine) and 1,040 µg/L (1,070 µg/g creatinine), respectively. Least-square geometric mean (LSGM) concentrations were significantly higher (p ≤ 0.04) for females than for males, regardless of age. LSGM concentrations were significantly higher for non-Hispanic whites than for non-Hispanic blacks (p ≤ 0.01), regardless of age. Females were more likely than males [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 3.5; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.9--6.5], and non-Hispanic whites were more likely than non-Hispanic blacks (adjusted OR = 6.8; 95% CI, 2.9--16.2) to have concentrations above the 95th percentile. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to BP-3 was prevalent in the general U.S. population during 2003--2004. Differences by sex and race/ethnicity probably reflect differences in use of personal care products containing BP-3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Various lines of evidence have shown that bisphenol A [BPA; HO-C6H4-C(CH3)2- C6H4-OH] acts as an endocrine disruptor when present in very low doses. We have recently demonstrated that BPA binds strongly to human estrogen-related receptor-γ (ERR-γ) in a binding assay using [3H]4-hydroxytamoxifen ([3H]4-OHT). We also demonstrated that BPA inhibits the deactivation activity of 4-OHT. OBJECTIVES: In the present study, we intended to obtain direct evidence that BPA interacts with ERR-γ as a strong binder, and also to clarify the structural requirements of BPA for its binding to ERR-γ. METHODS: We examined [3H]BPA in the saturation binding assay using the ligand binding domain of ERR-γ and analyzed the result using Scatchard plot analysis. A number of BPA derivatives were tested in the competitive binding assay using [3H]BPA as a tracer and in the luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS: [3H]BPA showed a KD of 5.50 nM at a Bmax of 14.4 nmol/mg. When we examined BPA derivatives to evaluate the structural essentials required for the binding of BPA to ERR-γ, we found that only one of the two phenol-hydroxyl groups was essential for the full binding. The maximal activity was attained when one of the methyl groups was removed. All of the potent BPA derivatives retained a high constitutive basal activity of ERR-γ in the luciferase reporter gene assay and exhibited a distinct inhibitory activity against 4-OHT. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that the phenol derivatives are potent candidates for the endocrine disruptor that binds to ERR-γ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Bisphenol A (BPA) and 4-tertiary-octylphenol (tOP) are industrial chemicals used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins (BPA) and nonionic surfactants (tOP). These products are in widespread use in the United States. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess exposure to BPA and tOP in the U.S. general population. METHODS: We measured the total (free plus conjugated) urinary concentrations of BPA and tOP in 2,517 participants ≥ 6 years of age in the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey using automated solid-phase extraction coupled to isotope dilution-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS: BPA and tOP were detected in 92.6% and 57.4% of the persons, respectively. Least square geometric mean (LSGM) concentrations of BPA were significantly lower in Mexican Americans than in non-Hispanic blacks (p = 0.006) and non-Hispanic whites (p = 0.007); LSGM concentrations for non-Hispanic blacks and non-Hispanic whites were not statistically different (p = 0.21). Females had statistically higher BPA LSGM concentrations than males (p = 0.043). Children had higher concentrations than adolescents (p < 0.001), who in turn had higher concentrations than adults (p = 0.003). LSGM concentrations were lowest for participants in the high household income category (> $45,000/year). CONCLUSIONS: Urine concentrations of total BPA differed by race/ethnicity, age, sex, and household income. These first U.S. population representative concentration data for urinary BPA and tOP should help guide public health research priorities, including studies of exposure pathways, potential health effects, and risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the authors discuss a study conducted by them related to urinary phenol and t,t-muconic acid (ttMA) in one of them who was exposed to airborne benzene. It states that though the study shows phenol and ttMA in urine sample, the limitation is that only one person was evaluated. It mentions that results of this study show that evaluation of single spot urine samples may lead to false positive results in terms of exposure to benzene.

Abstract: A novel strategy to fabricate an amperometric biosensor for phenol determination based on chitosan/laponite nanocomposite matrix was described. The composite film was used to immobilize PPO on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode. Chitosan was utilized to improve the analytical performance of the pure clay-modified bioelectrode. The biosensor exhibited a series of properties: good affinity to its substrate (the apparent Michaelis–Menten constant for the sensor was found to be 0.16mM), high sensitivity (674mAM−1 cm−2 for catechol) and remarkable long-term stability in storage (it retains 88% of the original activity after 60 days). In addition, optimization of the biosensor construction as well as effects of experimental variables such as pH, operating potential and temperature on the amperometric response of the sensor were discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

BACKGROUND: Hormonally active environmental agents have been measured among U.S. children using exposure biomarkers in urine. However, little is known about their variation by race, age, sex, and geography, and no data exist for newly developed biomarkers. OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to characterize relevant, prevalent exposures for a study of female pubertal development. METHODS: In a pilot study among 90 girls from New York City, New York, Cincinnati, Ohio, and northern California, we measured 25 urinary analytes representing 22 separate agents from three chemical families: phytoestrogens, phthalates, and phenols. Exposures occur chiefly from the diet and from household or personal care products. RESULTS: Participants represented four racial/ethnic groups (Asian, black, Hispanic, white), with mean age of 7.77 years. Most analytes were detectable in > 94% of samples. The highest median concentrations for individual analytes in each family were for enterolactone (298 µg/L), monoethylphthalate (MEP; 83.2 µg/L), and benzophenone-3 (BP3; 14.7 µg/L). Few or no data have been reported previously for four metabolites: mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate, triclosan, bisphenol A (BPA), and BP3; these were detected in 67-100% of samples with medians of 1.8-53.2 µg/L. After multivariate adjustment, two analytes, enterolactone and BPA, were higher among girls with body mass index < 85th reference percentile than those at or above the 85th percentile. Three phthalate metabolites differed by race/ethnicity [MEP, mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, and mono-3-carboxypropylphthalate]. CONCLUSIONS: A wide spectrum of hormonally active exposure biomarkers were detectable and variable among young girls, with high maximal concentrations (> 1,000 µg/L) found for several analytes. They varied by characteristics that may be relevant to development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of phenolic and phenol compounds on 3,3′,5-L-125I-triiodothyronine (125I-T3) binding to purified Xenopus laevis transthyretin (xTTR) and to the ligand-binding domain of X. laevis thyroid hormone receptor β (xTR LBD), on T3-induced metamorphosis in X. laevis tadpoles and on the induction of T3-dependent reporter gene in a X. laevis cell line. Of the halogenated phenolic and phenol compounds tested, 3,3′,5-trichlorobisphenol A and 2,4,6-triiodophenol, respectively, were the most potent competitors of 125I-T3 binding to both xTTR and xTR LBD. Most of the halogenated compounds had stronger interactions with xTTR than with xTR LBD. Generally, chlorinated derivatives with a greater degree of chlorination were more efficient competitors of T3 binding to xTTR and xTR LBD. Structures with a halogen in either ortho position or in both ortho positions, with respect to the hydroxy group, were more efficient competitors. 3,3′,5-Trichlorobisphenol A and 2,4,6-triiodophenol acted as T3 antagonists in the X. laevis tadpole metamorphosis assay. Interestingly, o-t-butylphenol and 2-isopropylphenol, for which xTTR and xTR LBD had weak or no significant affinity, showed T3 antagonist activity in the metamorphosis assay. T3 antagonist activities of all these chemicals except for o-t-butylphenol were verified by T3-dependent reporter gene assay. Our results suggest that some phenolic and phenol compounds target the process of T3 binding to xTTR and xTR and/or an unknown process, and that they interfere with the intracellular T3 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

OBJECTIVE:: We reviewed the bioavailability and antioxidant effects of phenols from extra virgin olive oil. SEARCH STRATEGY:: We searched the MEDLINE database for the years 1966-2002. To review the bioavailability of olive oil phenols, we selected animal and human studies that studied the absorption, metabolism, and urinary excretion of olive oil phenols. We also estimated the intake of the various phenols in the Mediterranean area. To review the antioxidant effects of olive oil phenols, we included human and animal studies on the effect of olive oil phenols on markers of oxidative processes in the body. We excluded studies without a proper control treatment and studies in which the antioxidant effects of phenols could not be disentangled from those of the fatty acid composition of olive oil. RESULTS:: Bioavailability studies in humans show that the absorption of olive oil phenols is probably larger than 55-66?mol%, and that at least 5% is excreted in urine as tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol. Animal studies suggest that phenol-rich olive oil lowers oxidisability of ex vivo low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles or lowers markers in urine of oxidative processes in the body. In five out of seven human studies, however, these effects of phenols were not found. There are no data on the phenol concentrations in plasma that are attainable by intake of olive oil. We estimated that 50?g of olive oil per day provides about 2?mg or ~13?µmol of hydroxytyrosol-equivalents per day, and that the plasma concentration of olive oil phenols with antioxidant potential resulting from such an intake can be at most 0.06?µmol/l. This is much lower than the minimum concentrations of these phenols (50-100?µmol) required to show antioxidant activity in vitro. CONCLUSION:: Although phenols from olive oil seem to be well absorbed, the content of olive oil phenols with antioxidant potential in the Mediterranean diet is probably too low to produce a measurable effect on LDL oxidisability or other oxidation markers in humans. The available evidence does not suggest that consumption of phenols in the amounts provided by dietary olive oil will protect LDL against oxidative modification to any important extent.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2004) 58, 955-965. doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601917 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study,we investigated immunohistochemically the time-course alterations in estrogen receptor α (ER)expression and cell proliferating activity in the developing uteri of Donryu rats exposed neonatally to a high dose p-tert-octylphenol (OP), an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC). OP-treatment (sc injections of 100 mg/kg, every other day from postnatal days 1 to 15) induced an early and enhanced ER expression in the luminal epithelium compared with age-matched controls from postnatal day (PND) 10, and increased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive cells up to PND21. At PND28, ER expression in the luminal epithelium of the OP-treated group was decreased, in association with decline in the luminal epithelial areas. PND14, the second week of life, is coincident with the normal time for differentiation when the luminal epithelium invaginates into the stroma to form uterine glands. OP-treatment, however, delayed and inhibited gland-formation, and suppressed ER expression in the invaginated-luminal and glandular epithelium at this time. These results indicate that ER expression in these sites is strongly linked with cell proliferating activity. In stromal cells, ER was expressed from PND6 in both groups without any PCNA positive cells, but significantly lower values were noted in the OP-treated group up to PND10. Our immunohistochemical investigation did not reveal any abnormalities in expression of the proto-oncogene c-fos, mitotic inhibitor p21, or epidermal growth factor antigen, although the apoptotic index in the luminal epithelium was slightly increased in the OP-treated group. These results demonstrate neonatal effects of a high dose of OP, already detectable at PND10, with early and enhanced ER expression, resulting in increase of cell proliferative activity in the luminal epithelium, though expression in the glandular epithelium was suppressed in relation to inhibited gland-genesis. The present study thus suggests that neonatal exposure to high doses of EDCs with estrogenic activity can induce abnormal differentiation in the developing rat uteri via abnormal ER expression and subsequent alteration of cell proliferating activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifies the main hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls and other chlorinated phenolic compounds in whole blood from Canadians. Determination of their relative concentrations in whole blood from male and female Inuit from northern Quebec; Determination of concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls among the samples.