Brazil nut consumption reduces DNA damage in overweight type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is a metabolic disease, which occurs largely due to unhealthy lifestyle. As oxidative stress is believed to promote T2D, by inducing damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA, appropriate dietary interventions seem critical to prevent, manage, and even reverse this condition. Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa, H.B.K.) are nature's richest source of selenium, a mineral that has shown several health benefits. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effects of selenium consumption, through Brazil nuts, on biochemical and oxidative stress parameters, and genomic instability in T2D patients. We recruited 133 patients with T2D, registered in the Integrated Clinics of the University of Southern Santa Catarina (Brazil). Participants consumed one Brazil nut a day for six months. Blood samples and exfoliated buccal cells were collected at the beginning and the end of the intervention. The glycemic profile, lipid profile, renal profile and hepatic profile, DNA damage and selenium content were evaluated. A total of 74 participants completed the intervention. Brazil nut consumption increased selenium and GSH levels, GPx, and CAT activity while DCF and nitrites levels decreased. Total thiols increased, and protein carbonyl and MDA levels decreased. Levels of baseline and oxidative DNA damage in T2D patients were significantly decreased, as well as the frequency of micronuclei and nuclear buds. The fasting glucose levels, HDL and LDL cholesterol, and GGT levels that increased significantly in patients with type 2 diabetes were significantly reduced with nut consumption. Our results show an increase in antioxidant activity, along with reductions of protein and lipid oxidation as well as DNA damage, suggesting that Brazil nut consumption could be an ally in reducing oxidative stress and modulating the genomic instability in T2D patients.

FAIR environmental and health registry (FAIREHR)- supporting the science to policy interface and life science research, development and innovation.

The environmental impact on health is an inevitable by-product of human activity. Environmental health sciences is a multidisciplinary field addressing complex issues on how people are exposed to hazardous chemicals that can potentially affect adversely the health of present and future generations. Exposure sciences and environmental epidemiology are becoming increasingly data-driven and their efficiency and effectiveness can significantly improve by implementing the FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) principles for scientific data management and stewardship. This will enable data integration, interoperability and (re)use while also facilitating the use of new and powerful analytical tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning in the benefit of public health policy, and research, development and innovation (RDI). Early research planning is critical to ensuring data is FAIR at the outset. This entails a well-informed and planned strategy concerning the identification of appropriate data and metadata to be gathered, along with established procedures for their collection, documentation, and management. Furthermore, suitable approaches must be implemented to evaluate and ensure the quality of the data. Therefore, the 'Europe Regional Chapter of the International Society of Exposure Science' (ISES Europe) human biomonitoring working group (ISES Europe HBM WG) proposes the development of a FAIR Environment and health registry (FAIREHR) (hereafter FAIREHR). FAIR Environment and health registry offers preregistration of studies on exposure sciences and environmental epidemiology using HBM (as a starting point) across all areas of environmental and occupational health globally. The registry is proposed to receive a dedicated web-based interface, to be electronically searchable and to be available to all relevant data providers, users and stakeholders. Planned Human biomonitoring studies would ideally be registered before formal recruitment of study participants. The resulting FAIREHR would contain public records of metadata such as study design, data management, an audit trail of major changes to planned methods, details of when the study will be completed, and links to resulting publications and data repositories when provided by the authors. The FAIREHR would function as an integrated platform designed to cater to the needs of scientists, companies, publishers, and policymakers by providing user-friendly features. The implementation of FAIREHR is expected to yield significant benefits in terms of enabling more effective utilization of human biomonitoring (HBM) data.

Thymus mastichina (L.) L. and Cistus ladanifer L. for skin application: chemical characterization and in vitro bioactivity assessment.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Thymus mastichina (L.) L. (TM) and Cistus ladanifer L. (CL) are two Portuguese autochthonous species with traditional skin application in folk medicine. TM is majorly known for its antiseptic and wound healing properties, as an external anti-inflammatory agent and for its application in folk cosmetics and hygiene products. Its use in acne vulgaris has also been reported. CL is traditionally used in remedies for wounds, ulcers and other skin ailments such as psoriasis and eczema. Its application has been found useful due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, wound healing and antiseptic properties. AIM OF THE STUDY: With this work, we aimed to investigate relevant bioactivities related with the traditional application of TM and CL essential oils (EOs) and hydrolates (by-products of EO production) in skin ailments. Specifically their in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, wound healing and antimicrobial properties were evaluated. The chemical composition of both EOs and respective hydrolates was also characterized. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chemical characterization of EOs and hydrolates was performed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Cellular biocompatibility was evaluated using the MTT assay in macrophages (RAW 264.7) and fibroblasts (L929) cell lines. Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated by studying nitric oxide (NO) production by macrophages with Griess reagent. Wound healing potential was evaluated with the scratch-wound assay. The antioxidant potential was studied by the DPPH scavenging method. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by broth microdilution assay against relevant microbial strains and skin pathogens, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Cutibacterium acnes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Aspergillus brasiliensis. RESULTS: The major compounds present in TM and CL EOs were 1,8-cineole and α-pinene, respectively. 1,8-cineole and E-pinocarveol were the major compounds in the correspondent hydrolates. CL EO presented the highest anti-inflammatory potential [EC50 = 0.002% (v/v)], still with significant cytotoxicity [IC50 = 0.012% (v/v)]. TM preparations presented anti-inflammatory potential, also presenting higher biocompatibility. The same profile was present on fibroblasts regarding biocompatibility of the tested preparations. CL EO and hydrolate increased fibroblasts' migration by 155.7% and 148.4%, respectively. TM hydrolate presented a milder activity than CL hydrolate, but wound healing potential was still present, increasing cell migration by 125.1%. All preparations presented poor antioxidant capacity. CL EO presented higher antimicrobial activity, with MICs ranging from 0.06% (v/v) to 2% (v/v), against different microorganisms. CONCLUSIONS: Anti-inflammatory and skin repairing potential were present for CL preparations. TM hydrolate presented an interesting biocompatible profile on both cell lines, also presenting anti-inflammatory potential. Furthermore, EOs from both species presented antimicrobial activity against a panel of different microorganisms. These in vitro bioactivities support some of their traditional skin applications, specifically regarding their antiseptic, wound healing and anti-inflammatory uses.

Brazil nut prevents oxidative DNA damage in type 2 diabetes patients.

The Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa, H.B.K.) originating from the Amazon region is one of the richest known sources of selenium (Se), a micronutrient that is essential and required for optimal physiological functioning. This mineral presents several health benefits, including improvement of the redox cellular status and maintenance of genomic stability. Knowing that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is strongly linked to oxidative stress and consequently DNA damage, the aim of this study was to assess the ex vivo antioxidative effects of Se through Brazil nut consumption and its potential in preventing oxidative DNA damage induced by H2O2. In order to accomplish this, the Comet assay (single-cell gel electrophoresis) was used to measure DNA damage in peripheral blood cells harvested before and after supplementation with Brazil nut. Comet assay was also applied ex vivo to measure the potential of Se to prevent oxidative damage to DNA induced by H2O2 in blood of type 2 diabetes patients collected before and after six months of supplementation with Brazil nut. We found that supplementation with Brazil nuts significantly increased serum Se levels. Furthermore, we observed a significant increase in fasting blood glucose after six months of consuming Brazil nuts; however, no significant effect was observed on the levels of glycated hemoglobin. Finally, we noticed that the cells were more resistant to H2O2-induced DNA damage after six months of supplementation with Brazil nut. Thus, consumption of Brazil nuts could decrease oxidative DNA damage in T2D patients, probably through the antioxidative effects of Se.

Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Thymus×citriodorus (Pers.) Schreb. preparations for anti-acne applications: Antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory and safety profiles.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Thymus × citriodorus (Pers.) Schreb. is an interspecific hybrid between Thymus pulegioides and Thymus vulgaris, known for its pharmacological activities as diaphoretic, deodorant, antiseptic and disinfectant, the last mostly related with its antimicrobial activity. The folk use of other extracts, as hydrolates, have also been disseminated, as regulators of oily skin with anti-acne effect. AIM OF THE STUDY: We aimed to evaluate the anti-acne potential of two Thymus x citriodorus (TC) preparations, the essential oil (EO) and the hydrolate, to be used as active ingredients for skin applications. Specifically, we intend to validate their anti-acne potential by describing their activity on acne related bacteria, bacterial virulence, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, and biocompatibility on inflammatory cells. Additionally, we aimed to report their ecotoxicity under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), thus focusing not only on the consumer, but also on environmental safety assessment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against C. acnes, S. aureus and S. epidermidis was evaluated. Minimum lethal concentration (MLC) was also determined. The effect on C. acnes biofilm formation and disruption was evaluated with crystal violet staining. Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated on LPS-stimulated mouse macrophages (RAW 264.7), by studying nitric oxide (NO) production (Griess reagent) and cellular biocompatibility through MTT assay. In-vitro NO and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging potential were also evaluated. The ecotoxicity was evaluated using Daphnia magna acute toxicity assays. RESULTS: EO presented direct antimicrobial activity, with visual MICs ranging from 0.06% for S. epidermidis and C. acnes to 0.125% for S. aureus. MLCs were higher than the obtained MICs. Hydrolate revealed visual MIC only for C. acnes. TC essential oil was effective in preventing biofilm formation and disrupting preformed biofilms even at sub-inhibitory concentrations. Hydrolate showed a more modest anti-biofilm effect. Regarding anti-inflammatory activity, TC hydrolate has a higher cellular biocompatibility. Still, both plant preparations were able to inhibit at least 50% of NO production at non-cytotoxic concentrations. Both EO and hydrolate have poor anti-oxidant activities. Regarding the ecotoxicity, TC essential oil was classified under acute 3 category, while the hydrolate has proved to be nontoxic, in accordance to the GHS. CONCLUSIONS: These results support the anti-acne value of different TC preparations for different applications. TC hydrolate by presenting higher biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory potential and the ability to modulate C. acnes virulence, can be advantageous in a product for everyday application. On the other hand, EO by presenting a marked antimicrobial, anti-biofilm and anti-inflammatory activities, still with some cytotoxicity, may be better suited for application in acute flare-ups, for short treatment periods.

Low Vitamin D Levels and Frailty Status in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Serum vitamin D deficiency is widespread among older adults and is a potential modifiable risk factor for frailty. Moreover, frailty has been suggested as an intermediate step in the association between low levels of vitamin D and mortality. Hence, we conducted a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis to test the possible association of low concentrations of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), a marker of vitamin D status, with frailty in later life. We reviewed cross-sectional or longitudinal studies evaluating populations of older adults and identifying frailty by a currently validated scale. Meta-analyses were restricted to cross-sectional data from studies using Fried's phenotype to identify frailty. Twenty-six studies were considered in the qualitative synthesis, and thirteen studies were included in the meta-analyses. Quantitative analyses showed significant differences in the comparisons of frail (standardized mean difference (SMD)-1.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-2.47, -0.15), p = 0.0271) and pre-frail (SMD-0.79, 95% CI (-1.58, -0.003), p = 0.0491) subjects vs. non-frail subjects. Sensitivity analyses reduced heterogeneity, resulting in a smaller but still highly significant between-groups difference. Results obtained indicate that lower 25(OH)D levels are significantly associated with increasing frailty severity. Future challenges include interventional studies testing the possible benefits of vitamin D supplementation in older adults to prevent/palliate frailty and its associated outcomes.

Vitamin D3 as adjuvant in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: modulation of genomic and biochemical instability.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has undergone a worldwide growth in incidence in the world and has now acquired epidemic status. There is a strong link between type 2 diabetes and vitamin D deficiency. Because vitamin D has beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of vitamin D3 supplementation on the modulation of glycaemic control and other metabolic effects, as well as modulation of genomic instability in patients with type 2 diabetes. We evaluated 75 patients with type 2 diabetes, registered in the Integrated Clinics of the University of Southern Santa Catarina. Participants received 4000 IU of vitamin D3 (25(OH)D) supplementation daily for 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected at the beginning and at the end of the supplementation, and 4 weeks after the end of supplementation. The glycidic and lipid profiles [total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides], oxidative stress, DNA damage and 25(OH)D levels were evaluated. Vitamin D3 supplementation for 8 weeks showed enough to significantly increase blood levels of 25(OH)D. A significant difference in lipid profile was observed only in non-HDL cholesterol. Significant changes were observed in glucose homeostasis (fasting glucose and serum insulin) and, in addition, a reduction in the parameters of oxidative stress and DNA damage. There was a significant reduction in the values of 25(OH)D 4 weeks after the end of the supplementation, but levels still remained above baseline. Use of vitamin D supplementation can be an ally in the health modulation of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Evaluation of the cytotoxicity (HepG2) and chemical composition of polar extracts from the ruderal species Coleostephus myconis (L.) Rchb.f.

Coleostephus myconis (L.) Rchb.f. (Asteraceae) is a highly disseminated plant species with ruderal and persistent growth. Owing to its advantageous agronomic properties, C. myconis might have industrial applications. However, this species needs to be comprehensively characterized before any potential use. In a previous study, the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of different C. myconis tissues were characterized. This investigation was extended to examine the cytotoxic potential of selected plant tissues (flowers and green parts) using a HepG2 cell line by utilizing the lysosomal neutral red uptake assay or mitochondrial (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. In addition, the macronutrients content, lipophilic compounds (fatty acids, tocopherols), and amino acids were also determined. C. myconis flowers were used in the senescence stage, which was previously identified as the stage that presented maximal phenolic content and highest antioxidant activity. In contrast, stems and leaves were employed due to their high biomass proportion. Regarding cytotoxicity, mitochondrial and lysosomal damage was only significant when HepG2 cells were exposed to the highest extract concentrations (stems and leaves, 0.9 mg/ml; senescent flowers, 0.3 mg/ml). Chemically, the senescent flowers were mostly characterized by their high levels of fat, amino acids (especially threonine), oleic acid, ß-, and γ-tocopherol, while stems and leaves contained high concentrations of carbohydrates, linolenic acid, and α-tocopherol. In general, these results provide information regarding the threshold concentrations of C. myconis extracts that might be used in different applications without toxicity hazards.

Assessment of Beneficial and Possible Toxic Effects of Two New Alfalfa-Derived Shelf Products.

Aerial parts of Medicago sativa L. have been used as food and its consumption has been associated with health benefits, one among the most important being menopausal symptoms control. This work was aimed to explore possible pharmacological effects of two new alfalfa-derived products that have recently emerged as daily beverage preparations. In exploring their potential estrogenic effects, they produced no relevant alteration in the uterus. However, lowering glucose levels until normal values without causing further hypoglycemic effect were observed, when rats were treated with 1.5 g/kg/day samples. In vivo acute toxicity was not found when the alfalfa products were tested up to 3 g/kg rat weight. Furthermore, in vitro studies were conducted to assess their possible toxic effects. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase tests were carried out on the Caco-2 cell model to determine cell viability and membrane integrity. A concentration-dependent effect was observed, with a significant decrease in cell viability after exposure to concentrations of alfalfa product up to 100 mg/mL (after 3 h of incubation) and 50 mg/mL (after 24 h of treatment). Although in vitro level, the decrease in cell viability at these still low doses may underlie some toxicity, making necessary additional studies before any recommendation of a sustained consumption of these products by humans.

Metal(loid) levels in biological matrices from human populations exposed to mining contamination--Panasqueira Mine (Portugal).

Mining activities may affect the health of miners and communities living near mining sites, and these health effects may persist even when the mine is abandoned. During mining processes various toxic wastes are produced and released into the surrounding environment, resulting in contamination of air, drinking water, rivers, plants, and soils. In a geochemical sampling campaign undertaken in the Panasqueira Mine area of central Portugal, an anomalous distribution of several metals and arsenic (As) was identified in various environmental media. Several potentially harmful elements, including As, cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and selenium (Se), were quantified in blood, urine, hair, and nails (toe and finger) from a group of individuals living near the Panasqueira Mine who were environmentally and occupationally exposed. A group with similar demographic characteristics without known exposure to mining activities was also compared. Genotoxicity was evaluated by means of T-cell receptor (TCR) mutation assay, and percentages of different lymphocyte subsets were selected as immunotoxicity biomarkers. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) analysis showed elevated levels of As, Cd, Cr, Mn, and Pb in all biological samples taken from populations living close to the mine compared to controls. Genotoxic and immunotoxic differences were also observed. The results provide evidence of an elevated potential risk to the health of populations, with environmental and occupational exposures resulting from mining activities. Further, the results emphasize the need to implement preventive measures, remediation, and rehabilitation plans for the region.