bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of carotenoids by heat and tobacco smoke
Authors: Hurst John S. , Contreras Janice E. , Siems Werner G. , Van Kuijk Frederik J.G.M.
Published: December 2008

The stability to autoxidation of the polar carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, was compared to that of the less polar carotenoids, β‐carotene and lycopene at physiologically or pathophysiologically relevant concentrations of 2 and 6 μM, after exposure to heat or cigarette smoke. Three methodological approaches were used: 1) Carotenoids dissolved in solvents with different polarities were incubated at 37 and 80°C for different times. 2) Human plasma samples were subjected to the same temperature conditions. 3) Methanolic carotenoid solutions and plasma were also exposed to whole tobacco smoke from 1–5 unfiltered cigarettes. The concentrations of individual carotenoids in different solvents were determined spectrophotometrically. Carotenoids from plasma were extracted and analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography. Carotenoids were generally more stable at 37 than at 80°C. In methanol and dichloromethane the thermal degradation of β‐carotene and lycopene was faster than that of lutein and zeaxanthin. However, in tetrahydrofuran β‐carotene and zeaxanthin degraded faster than lycopene and lutein. Plasma carotenoid levels at 37°C did not change, but decreased at 80°C. The decrease of β‐carotene and lycopene levels was higher than those for lutein and zeaxanthin. Also in the tobacco smoke experiments the highest autoxidation rates were found for β‐carotene and lycopene at 2 μM, but at 6 μM lutein and zeaxanthin depleted to the same extent as β‐carotene. These data support our previous studies suggesting that oxidative stress degrade β‐carotene and lycopene faster than lutein and zeaxanthin. The only exception was the thermal degradation of carotenoids solubilized in tetrahydrofuran, which favors faster breakdown of β‐carotene and zeaxanthin.
Inhibitory effect of pioglitazone on expression of adhesion molecules on neutrophils and endothelial cells
Authors: Imamoto Eiko , Yoshida Norimasa , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Kuroda Masaaki , Kokura Satoshi , Ichikawa Hiroshi , Naito Yuji , Tanigawa Toru , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: December 2008

The interaction between leukocytes and the vascular endothelial cells (EC) via cellular adhesion molecules plays an important role in various inflammatory and immune diseases. It has been suggested that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ, a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors) might be involved in the control of inflammation and in modulating the expression of various cytokines. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory properties of PPAR‐γ activators, as well as the inhibitory effect of PPAR‐γ on the expression of adhesion molecules on leukocytes and vascular endothelial cells. Pioglitazone, a synthetic PPAR‐γ activator, suppressed the increase of CD11b/CD18 expression on FMLP‐activated leukocytes, as detected by immunofluorescence flow cytometry. However, the FMLP‐induced elevation of cytosolic Ca+2 in leukocytes was not suppressed by pioglitazone. Pioglitazone inhibited the expression of VCAM‐1 protein and mRNA on activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) after IL‐1β stimulation, as detected by ELISA and real‐time PCR. However, it showed little effect on the expression of ICAM‐1 and E‐selectin. The present study revealed that pioglitazone can influence monocyte‐EC binding by inhibiting VCAM‐1 expression on activated EC and neutrophil‐EC binding by inhibiting upregulation of CD11b/CD18 on activated neutrophils. Accordingly, pioglitazone may be useful for treating inflammatory diseases.
Effect of reduced oxygen tension on reactive oxygen species production and activity of antioxidant enzymes in swine granulosa cells
Authors: Basini Giuseppina , Grasselli Francesca , Bianco Federico , Tirelli Martina , Tamanini Carlo
Published: December 2008

During follicle growth swine granulosa cells are physiologically exposed to a progressive oxygen shortage. It has already been shown that hypoxia stimulates angiogenesis through an increase of VEGF production, however, despite considerable progress in the understanding of the final events induced by cellular hypoxia, the signal transduction pathway remains elusive. Recent evidence suggest a role for Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) as hypoxia signal transducer.

Granulosa cells were isolated from pig follicles (> 5 mm) and cultured for 18 h in normoxic (19% O2), hypoxic (5% O2) or anoxic (1% O2) conditions. Following the incubation ROS ( O2−and H2O2) production and the activity of scavenging enzymes (SOD, catalase and peroxidase) were determined.

It was apparent from our data that ROS generation was reduced by hypoxia. On the contrary, SOD and peroxidase, but not catalase, increased their activity. Further studies are needed to verify whether ROS are involved in signalling hypoxia.
Stem cell factor and H2O2induce GLUT1 translocation in M07e cells
Authors: Maraldi Tullia , Fiorentini Diana , Prata Cecilia , Landi Laura , Hakim Gabriele
Published: December 2008

This work aims to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the early activation of glucose transport in hematopoietic M07e cells by stem cell factor (SCF) and a reactive oxygen species (ROS) as H2O2. SCF and H2O2increase Vmax for glucose transport; this enhancement is due to a higher content in GLUT1 in plasma membranes, possibly through a translocation from intracellular stores. Inhibitors of tyrosine kinases or phospholipase C (PLC) remove glucose transport enhancement and prevent translocation. The inhibitory effect of STI‐571 suggests a role for c‐kit tyrosine kinase on glucose transport activation not only by SCF, but also by H2O2. On the other hand, neither protein kinase C nor phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase appear to be involved in the acute activation of glucose transport. Our data suggest that i) in M07e cells, SCF and exogenous H2O2elicit a short‐term activation of glucose transport through a translocation of GLUT1 from intracellular stores to plasma membranes; ii) both stimuli could share at least some signaling pathways leading to glucose uptake activation, involving protein tyrosine kinases and PLC iii) H2O2could act increasing the level of tyrosine phosphorylation through the inhibition of tyrosine phosphatases and mimicking the regulation role of endogenous ROS.
Oxidative status of human milk and its variations during cold storage
Authors: Miranda María , Muriach María , Almansa Inmaculada , Jareño Enrique , Bosch‐Morell Francisco , Romero Francisco J. , Silvestre Dolores
Published: December 2008

Breastfeeding and human milk are widely accepted as optimal for human infants' nutrition. Nowadays lifestyle often makes it difficult to maintain or even initiate human lactation. This situation is mostly related to the workload of women away from home. New approaches are needed to enable maternal lactation under these circumstances. Human breastmilk storage for differed use is one possibility. The aim of this study was to assess changes in glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and in the concentration of the lipid peroxidation marker, malondialdehyde (MDA), when human milk was kept refrigerated or frozen. Thirty‐two human milk samples were assayed for GPx activity and MDA concentration. Samples were divided in three aliquot portions, the first to be immediately analysed, the second to be refrigerated at 4°C and analysed 24 h thereafter, and the third to be frozen at ‐20°C and assayed after 10 days. GPx activity was significantly decreased in refrigerated and in frozen milk, when compared to their control samples. MDA was increased only in refrigerated milk but not in frozen samples. Thus, freezing seems better than refrigeration in order to prevent lipid peroxidation in stored human milk samples.
Dietary fat composition modifies the effect of boron on bone characteristics and plasma lipids in rats
Authors: Nielsen Forrest H.
Published: December 2008

Female and male rats weighing about 170 g and 200 g, respectively, were fed diets (∼70 μ boron/kg) in a factorial arrangement with supplemental boron at 0 (deficient) and 3 (adequate) mg/kg and canola oil or palm oil at 75 g/kg of diet as variables. After 5 weeks, six females in each treatment were bred. Dams and pups continued on their respective dietary treatments through gestation, lactation and post‐weaning. Thirteen weeks after weaning, plasma and bones were collected from 12 male and 12 female offspring in each treatment. Boron supplementation increased femur strength measured by the breaking variable bending moment; tibial calcium and phosphorus concentrations; and plasma alkaline phosphatase. Femur breaking stress was greatest in boron‐supplemented rats fed canola oil, and lowest in boron‐deprived females fed canola oil; this group also exhibited the lowest femur bending moment. Minerals associated with bone organic matrix, zinc and potassium, were increased by boron supplementation in tibia. Plasma phospholipids were decreased by boron deprivation in females, but not males. Plasma cholesterol was decreased in boron‐supplemented males by replacing canola oil with palm oil. The findings suggest that a diet high in omega‐3 α‐linolenic acid promotes femur strength best when the dietary boron is adequate.
ROS production and Glut1 activity in two human megakaryocytic cell lines
Authors: Prata Cecilia , Maraldi Tullia , Zambonin Laura , Fiorentini Diana , Hakim Gabriele , Landi Laura
Published: December 2008

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been increasingly recognised as intracellular messengers in signal transduction following receptor activation by a variety of bioactive peptides including growth factors, cytokines and hormones. In this study ROS production and glucose transport activity were evaluated in the growth factor dependent M07e cells and in B1647 cells, not requiring additional hematopoietic cytokines for growth: the aim was to investigate whether ROS could be involved in the regulation of Glut1‐mediated glucose uptake in both cell lines. The effect of the synthetic superoxide and hydrogen peroxide scavenger EUK‐134 on DOG uptake activity and intracellular ROS formation supports the concept of reactive oxygen species as signalling molecules. In order to investigate ROS generation sources, diphenyleneiodonium, an inhibitor of flavoprotein centres and apocynin, an inhibitor of NAD(P)H oxidase, were used: they inhibit both ROS production and glucose uptake activation. All these data support the hypothesis that ROS can contribute to the regulation of glucose transport, not only in M07e cells but also in B1647 cells; we could speculate that one possible source of ROS, linked somehow with Glut1 activity, can be a NAD(P)H oxidase similar to that one present in phagocytic cells.
Accumulation of copper in kidney of spontaneously hypertensive rats, a preliminary study
Authors: Minakata Kayoko , Kawai Kaori , Horio Fumihiko , Takeuchi Hiroichi , Suzuki Osamu
Published: December 2008

Mineral levels such as Cu, Fe, Zn, Ca and Mg in organs of spontaneously hypertensive osteogenic disorder Shionogi rat (SHR‐od) were compared with those of normotensive osteogenic disorder Shionogi rat (ODS). The effect of vitamin C deficiency was also examined for both strains. Cu levels in kidney of SHR‐od increased to 2.2 times and 5.0 times that of ODS at 6‐week old and 30‐week old, respectively, although the effect of vitamin C deficiency was not observed in Cu levels of five organs examined. The effect of vitamin C deficiency appeared in the change in the other mineral levels almost similarly for both SHR‐od and ODS rats at 30‐week old; the decrease of Fe in liver, spleen and lung, whereas the increase of Zn in liver, Ca in heart and Mg in spleen, respectively.
Effects of gender on kidney function in magnesium‐deficient rats
Authors: Matsuzaki Hiroshi , Nemoto Tomoko , Fuchigami Masaaki , Uehara Mariko , Suzuki Kazuharu , Nakamura Kahoru
Published: December 2008

This study investigated the gender differences in the kidney function of magnesium (Mg)‐deficient rats. Male and female rats were fed a control diet or a Mg‐deficient diet for 21 d. Mg‐deficient diet had no significant effect on kidney calcium (Ca) or phosphorus (P) concentration in male rats, while Ca and P concentrations in female rats were significantly higher in Mg‐deficient rats than in the control rats. With regard to indicators of kidney function, no significant differences in creatinine clearance and serum urea nitrogen concentration were observed among the groups. Serum albumin concentrations were significantly lower in rats fed the Mg‐deficient diet than in rats fed the control diet. In both sexes, urinary albumin excretion was significantly higher in rats fed the Mg‐deficient diet than in rats fed the control diet. Gender differences had no significant influence on creatinine clearance, serum urea nitrogen concentration, serum albumin concentration and urinary albumin excretion. These results suggest that gender differences have no effect on kidney function in Mg‐deficient rats under the condition used.
A bitter melon extract inhibits the P‐glycoprotein activity in intestinal Caco‐2 cells: Monoglyceride as an active compound
Authors: Konishi Tomoko , Satsu Hideo , Hatsugai Yasuo , Aizawa Koichi , Inakuma Takahiro , Nagata Shinji , Sakuda Sho‐Hei , Nagasawa Hiromichi , Shimizu Makoto
Published: December 2008

P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is a 170 kDa membrane protein that belongs to the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily. In normal tissues, P‐gp functions as an ATP‐dependent efflux pump that excretes highly hydrophobic xenobiotic compounds, playing an important role in protecting the cells/tissues from xenobiotics. In the present study, chemical substances that could directly modulate the intestinal P‐gp activity were searched in vegetables and fruits. By using human intestinal epithelial Caco‐2 cells as a model of the small intestinal cells, we observed that a bitter melon fraction extracted from 40% methanol showed the greatest increase of the rhodamine‐123 accumulation by Caco‐2 cells. Inhibitory compounds in the bitter melon fraction were then isolated by HPLC using Pegasil C4 and Pegasil ODS columns. The HPLC fraction having the highest activity was analyzed by 1H‐NMR and FAB‐MS, and the active compound was identified as 1‐monopalmitin. It is interesting that certain types of monoglyceride might be involved in the drug bioavailability by specifically inhibiting the efflux mediated by P‐gp.
Induction of apoptosis in human leukemia cells by naturally fermented sugar cane vinegar (kibizu) of Amami Ohshima Island
Authors: Mimura Akio , Suzuki Yoshihiro , Toshima Youhei , Yazaki Shin‐Ichi , Ohtsuki Takashi , Ui Sadaharu , Hyodoh Fuminori
Published: December 2008

Naturally fermented vinegar such as Kibizu (sugar cane vinegar in Amami Ohshima, Japan), Kurozu (black rice vinegar in Kagoshima, Japan), Kouzu (black rice vinegar in China) and red wine vinegar in Italy had potent radical‐scavenging activity analyzed by DPPH method. For the elucidation of food factor for cancer prevention contained in naturally fermented vinegar, the induction of apoptosis in human leukemia cell HL‐60 was investigated with sugar cane vinegar Kibizu.

Fraction eluted by 40% methanol from Amberlite XAD 2 chromatography of sugar cane vinegar showed potent radical scavenging activity. The fraction also showed the activity repressing growth of typical human leukemia cells such as HL‐60, THP‐1, Molt‐4, U‐937, Jurkat, Raji and K‐562. On the other hand, the fraction did not have any growth inhibition activity against human fetal lung cell TIG‐1. The most potent radical‐scavenging activity and the growth repression activity of the leukemia cell were observed in the same chromatographic fraction of methanol 40%.

From cell sorting FACS analyses, electron microscopic observations and cytochemical staining of chromatin and nuclear segments in human leukemia cell HL‐60 treated with the active fraction, it was concluded that apoptosis was induced in the leukemia cell by the fraction of sugar cane vinegar and resulted in the repression of growth of the human leukemia cells.

Chromatographic fraction of sugar cane juice eluted by 20% methanol showed potent activities of radical‐scavenging and growth repression of HL‐60. These results led us the consideration that active components in sugar cane juice could be converted to more lipophilic compounds with activity to induce apoptosis in HL‐60 by microbial fermentation with yeast and acetic acid bacteria.
Effects of diet composition on mutagenic activity in urine
Authors: Ohara Akihiro , Matsuhisa Tsugio
Published: December 2008

The effects of dietary habits on mutagenic activity in urine were investigated using the umu test based on the use of the genetically engineered bacteria Salmonella typhimurium TA 1535 pSK1002. Genotoxic effects in sample urine were detected by measuring the activation of the SOS response in the bacteria and recording the β‐ galactosidase activity. Human subjects consisted of smokers and non‐smokers. Urine from subjects who consumed fish showed the highest mutagenic activity, followed by the urine samples from subjects who ate pork or beef. Chicken induced a low level of mutagenic activity. When the subjects ate fried or roasted animal foods, the urine samples gave higher mutagenicity than the urine samples from the subject who consumed non‐fried or non‐roasted animal foods. When the subject ate vegetables along with a diet rich in animal foods, the activity in urine decreased. Herbs and spices gave the same tendency toward decline as vegetables. Non‐smoker urine shower mutagenic activity than samples from smokers.
Anti‐obesity actions of green tea: Possible involvements in modulation of the glucose uptake system and suppression of the adipogenesis‐related transcription factors
Authors: Ashida Hitoshi , Furuyashiki Takashi , Nagayasu Hironobu , Bessho Hiroaki , Sakakibara Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Takashi , Kanazawa Kazuki
Published: December 2008

To investigate mechanisms of the anti‐obesity actions of green tea in vivo, rats were given green tea instead of drinking water for 3 weeks. It was confirmed that green tea reduced adipose tissue weight without any change in body weight, other tissue weights, and food and water intakes. Green tea also significantly reduced the plasma levels of cholesterols and free fatty acids. Certain catechins existed in the plasma at 0.24 μM under our experimental conditions, though most of them existed as conjugated forms. For mechanisms of the anti‐obesity actions, green tea significantly reduced glucose uptake accompanied by a decrease in translocation of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in adipose tissue, while it significantly stimulated the glucose uptake with GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle. Moreover, green tea suppressed the expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ and the activation of sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1 in adipose tissue. In conclusion, green tea modulates the glucose uptake system in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle and suppresses the expression and/or activation of adipogenesis‐related transcription factors, as the possible mechanisms of its anti‐obesity actions.
Concord grape juice supplementation reduces blood pressure in Korean hypertensive men: Double‐blind, placebo controlled intervention trial
Authors: Park Yoo Kyoung , Kim Jung‐Shin , Kang Myung‐Hee
Published: December 2008

Many of the flavonoids found in grapes and grape products such as juice or wine have been known to exert antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, platelet inhibitory and arterial relaxing effects either in vitro, in animal studies and in human trials. This study was designed to test the effect of Concord grape juice consumption on altering blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Forty subjects were given 5.5 ml/kg body weight/day of either Concord grape juice (CGJ) or a calorie‐matched placebo drink every day for 8 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) was measured on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Compared to baseline, in the CGJ group systolic BP was reduced on average by 7.2 mm Hg (p = 0.005) and diastolic BP was reduced on average by 6.2 mm Hg (p = 0.001) at the end of 8 weeks. Comparable changes in the group getting the placebo product were ‐3.5 mm Hg (NS) and ‐3.2 mm Hg (p = 0.05) Consuming Concord grape juice, which is high in polyphenolic compounds, may favorably affect BP in hypertensive individuals.
Effects of structured lipids containing eicosapentaenoic or docosahexaenoic acid and caprylic acid on serum and liver lipid profiles in rats
Authors: Nagata Jun‐Ichi , Kasai Michio , Negishi Satoshi , Saito Morio
Published: December 2008

The physiological activity and effect on lipid metabolism of four types of structured lipids (SLs), that contain caprylic acid (C8) and either eicosapentaenoic (EPA) or docosahesaenoic acid (DHA), were evaluated in male Wistar rats fed experimental diets containing 7% (wt %) of each SL and 3% (wt %) soybean oil for 28 days. Control rats were fed a diet containing 10% (wt %) soybean oil. The relative perirenal adipose tissue weights of rats fed D‐8–8 and 8‐D‐8 diets were significantly lower than those of other groups. We observed significantly lower serum cholesterol concentrations in rats fed SLs than those of control group over experimental period. The serum lipids concentrations in rats fed diets containing SLs were significantly lower P < 0.05) than those of soybean oil group. The fatty acid compositions of WAT did not reflect the structural differences in the triglyceride. These results suggest that the physiological effects of the SLs used in this study were due to the fatty acids rather than the structural specificity. Therefore, further study will be needed to ascertain the most desirable structural configuration.
Effects of forsythia fruit extracts and lignan on lipid metabolism
Authors: Cho Sung‐Hee , Rhee Soon‐Jae , Choi Sang‐Won , Choi Youngsun
Published: December 2008

A primary methanol extract (F‐ME), secondary butanol‐soluble fraction (F‐BU), and lignans were prepared from forsythia fruit (Forsythia viridissima L.) and added to 0.5% (w/w) cholesterol diets for male Sprague‐Dawley rats weighing 121 ± 12 g. There were six experimental groups: a control group, 0.2%, 0.4% F‐ME supplemented groups, 0.1%, 0.02% F‐BU groups and 0.02% lignan group. After 3 weeks of feeding, body weight gains, serum GOT and GPT levels were not different among the groups. HDL‐/total cholesterol ratios increased in the 0.2% F‐BU and lignan groups compared with the control groups. Liver triglyceride level lowered in most of forsythia groups. Fecal cholesterol excretions increased in the lignan group. Arctiin isolated from the forsythia fruit reduced cholesterol and triglyceride contents in cultured HepG2 cells at 0.01–0.1 μM. These results indicated that the forsythia lignan, arctiin is effective on improving blood lipid status without a significant hepatotoxicity and is to be utilized for the functional foods for lipid‐lowering action.
Red wine polyphenolics suppress the secretion and the synthesis of Apo B48 from human intestinal Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Takechi Ryusuke , Hiramatsu Naoko , Mamo John C. L. , Pal Sebely
Published: December 2008

Epidemiological studies suggest that the red wine consumption may reduce the risk factor of cardiovascular disease. However, the mechanisms of how the red wine phenolic components reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease is currently unknown. Our previous study demonstrated that red wine polyphenolics suppress the secretion of pro‐atherogenic lipoproteins (very low density lipoproteins) from human hepatic HepG2 cells. Therefore, in this study we hypothesize that red wine polyphenolics will also attenuate the production and secretion of another pro‐atherogenic lipoprotein (chylomicrons) from human intestinal Caco‐2 cells. Cultured Caco‐2 cells were incubated in the presence of dealcoholized red wine, alcoholized red wine and atorvastatin for 24 h. The apo B48 protein (marker of intestinal chylomicrons) was quantified on Western blotting and the enhanced chemiluminescence. Apo B48 levels in the cells and that secreted into the media were significantly reduced by 29% in the cells incubated with dealcoholized red wine compared with control cells. Also the similar effect was shown in the cells incubated with alcoholized red wine. The cells incubated with atorvastatin shown the significant reduction of apo B48 production compared to control cells. Collectively, this study suggests that red wine polyphenolics down regulate the production of chylomicron in intestinal Caco‐2 cells.
Fibrinolytic and anti‐thrombotic effect of NKCP, the protein layer from Bacillus subtilis (natto)
Authors: Omura Kazonobu , Hitosugi Masahito , Kaketani Kazutoshi , Zhu Xia , Maeda Hiroaki , Tokudome Shogo
Published: December 2008

NKCP is the completely refined protein layer from cultured Bacillus subtilis (natto) and is supplied in tablet form. It lacks the distinctive fermented odor and bacteria associated with fresh natto. Almost all vitamin K is removed during the manufacturing process. The main component of NKCP is the active fragment of Bacillopeptidase F, which is a serine protease secreted by Bacillus subtilis. In in vivo studies, NKCP shows fibrinolytic and amidolytic activity on plasmin specific synthetic substrate. Daily oral administration of NKCP in 28 volunteers for two weeks and then in 23 volunteers for several months, was examined. The fibrinolytic effect was demonstrated by a shortened euglobulin lysis time in both trials. Furthermore, we observed an improvement in shoulder stiffness. These results suggest that the oral administration of NKCP can be expected to have a fibrinolytic effect and cause positive changes in local blood flow. Further investigations may demonstrate NKCP to be useful in the prevention of thrombosis.
The effect of dietary and plasma fatty acids on platelet aggregation in senior generation of Japanese women
Authors: Takachi Ribeka , Kimira Mitsuru , Uesugi Sayo , Kudo Yoko , Ouchi Kazuyuki , Watanabe Shaw
Published: December 2008

Dietary factors that influence platelet aggregation have not been fully clarified in humans. 63 Japanese women, aged 40–70 years old, completed one‐day weighted dietary records, and received physical and laboratory examinations. Platelet aggregation was measured by 1.0 and 3.0 μM ADP induction. The results were analyzed with special reference to fatty acids. The short and medium chain fatty acid intake showed negative correlation with maximum percent of platelet aggregation induced by 1.0 μM ADP. Short and medium chain fatty acids in this study were mostly derived from milk and dairy products. Importance of short and medium chain fatty acid intake on platelet aggregation requires further study for prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Effects of isoflavone supplements on bone metabolic markers and climacteric symptoms in Japanese women
Authors: Uesugi Sayo , Watanabe Shaw , Ishiwata Naoko , Uehara Mariko , Ouchi Kazuyuki
Published: December 2008

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study on the effects of 40mg/d isoflavone supplements was carried out by 58 climacteric Japanese women. A questionnaire and an interview concerning climacteric symptoms, health status, dietary and exercise habit, and medical history were carried out, and the physical check‐up and biochemical tests including sex‐hormone analysis were made at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Urinary isoflavones were separately measured from the frozen samples.

Isoflavone treatment did not cause any adverse effects on anthropometric measures or blood chemistry. Urinary deoxypyridinoline, a marker of bone resorption decreased significantly with isoflavone treatment. This tendency was remarkable among equol producers. Plasma osteocalcin and bone mineral density did not change by the four‐weeks treatment. As for climacteric symptoms, hot flash decreased significantly. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure of hypertensive participants decreased significantly after isoflavone treatment compared with baseline and the placebo treatment.

Isoflavone supplementation offers benefits to reduce effectively on bone resorption enhanced by menopause. The treatment also showed an improvement of climacteric hot flash and hypertension. Equol producers showed better results.
Intake of phytochemicals among Japanese, calculated by the new FFF database
Authors: Kita Junko , Tada Junko , Ito Maiko , Shirakawa Mariko , Murashima Megumi , Zhuo Xing‐Gang , Watanabe Shaw
Published: December 2008

Effects of phytochemicals on human health are suggested from various animal experiments, but human studies remain insufficient. We have constructed a database of various phytochemicals (polyphenols, carotenoids, and sulphur compounds) (http://www.life‐science.jp/fff/) and estimated the amount of intake among Japanese population. The subjects were volunteers (16 males and 63 females, averagely aged 71 and 61, respectively) in Iwate city. Average BMI was 23 in both sexes.

Intake of 36 phytochemicals was calculated from one‐day dietary records of all intake, by multiplying concentrations of each phytochemical in foods. Phytochemicals with average intake of at least 10 μmole per day were catechin, isoflavones, isothiocyanate, ferulic acid, quercetin, cinnamic acid and chlorogenic acid. Chief component analysis yielded 12 factors (80%).
Food technology: Challenge for health promotion
Authors: Kwon T. W. , Hong J. H. , Moon G. S. , Song Y. S. , Kim J. I. , Kim J. C. , Kim M. J.
Published: December 2008

The food technology has brought countless benefits to today's food supply. Despite its many positive contributions, it has also brought unintended negative consequences. It is the time to mobilize the food technology to help the food supply more secure, safer and healthier, and here three possible approaches are foreseeable: First, we should continue to improve the conventional technologies. Many wholesome foods have been prepared and preserved using natural materials simply by fermentation. Second, we have to enhance the minimal processing as much as applicable. Third, new ingredients, intelligent packaging and functional foods should be explored to improve food supply and health. Today, consumer interest in the functional foods has been increased tremendously, and the future of food lies in the functional foods. However, the situations in the developing world are different from this. As food resource is limited in this region, food technology has to be emphasized to increase food supply. To help solve such complex problems, not only new technologies, but also conventional technologies have to be mobilized. Simultaneously, even higher technical capabilities have to be built up by applying new findings from the related disciplines to allow the food technology to play its vital role.
Enhanced oxidative stability of a hydrophilic arginine‐conjugated linoleic acid complex
Authors: Lee Ki Won , Kim Young Jun , Lee Seong‐Kweon , Lee Hyong Joo
Published: December 2008

The application of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) as a functional food ingredient has been limited due to its high cost of purification and insolubility in water. Recently, we reported a method to produce high‐purity CLA using two‐step urea‐inclusion crystallization and a hydrophilic arginine‐CLA (Arg‐CLA) complex. The present study compared the oxidative stability and antioxidant activity of CLA and Arg‐CLA. Hydroperoxide production from CLA increased about 12‐fold at 10 hr after heat treatment at 100°C, whereas Arg‐CLA did not exhibit significant hydroperoxide production. Furthermore, the Arg‐CLA complex showed synergistic antioxidant activity in a 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline)‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assay. Arg‐CLA at 20 mM scavenged 89% of ABTS radicals in 3 h, whereas CLA alone quenched only 48% under the same conditions. Our results indicate that a hydrophilic Arg‐CLA exhibits enhanced oxidative stability and antioxidant activity, which could expand the scope of CLA application in various food industries.
Beer and health: Preventive effects of beer components on lifestyle‐related diseases
Authors: Kondo Keiji
Published: December 2008

It has been demonstrated that the light‐to‐moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages is associated with significant reductions in all‐cause and particularly cardiovascular mortality. While the inverse association between red‐wine consumption and cardiovascular risk is globally recognized as the French paradox, many epidemiological studies have concluded that beer and red wine are equally beneficial. Moderate alcohol intake improves lipoprotein metabolism and lowers cardiovascular mortality risk. The question now is whether additional health benefits associated with the non‐alcohol components in beer may be expected. This article summarizes the results of the latest studies on the health benefits of beer while referring to our recent results, which demonstrate the preventive effects of beer and its components on lifestyle‐related diseases. A series of studies using animal models have shown that beer may prevent carcinogenesis and osteoporosis; beer provides plasma with significant protection from oxidative stress; and isohumulones, the bitter substances derived from hops, may prevent and improve obesity and type‐2 diabetes, improve lipid metabolism, and suppress atherosclerosis. Further studies are needed to clarify the components in addition to isohumulones that are responsible for these beneficial effects of beer, and the underlying mechanisms must be addressed.
Measurement of isoflavones using liquid chromatography with multi‐channel coulometric electrochemical detection
Authors: Ouchi Kazuyuki , Gamache Paul , Acworth Ian , Watanabe Shaw
Published: December 2008

We evaluated the use of HPLC multi‐channel coulometric electrochemical detection (HPLC‐ECD) for the routine measurement of phytochemicals by analyzing standards and urine samples. Compounds were separated chromatographically and electrochemically with high sensitivity (10 ng/ml of isoflavones in urine). HPLC‐ECD will enable better investigation into the relationship between lifestyle and the effects of phytochemicals on humans.
Dual mechanisms for telomerase inhibition in DLD‐1 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells by polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Eitsuka Takahiro , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Miyazawa Teruo
Published: December 2008

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been reported to have antitumor activity. In this study, we have tested whether telomerase might be a target for the antitumor effect of fatty acids using DLD‐1 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. In a cell‐free approach, fatty acids were added directly to cell lysates, and we confirmed that increasing fatty acid unsaturation correlates with increased inhibition of telomerase activity. Using a cell culture approach, DLD‐1 cells were cultured with fatty acids. In a time and dose dependent manner, EPA and DHA suppressed cellular telomerase activity and the mRNAs encoding hTERT (human telomerase reverse transcriptase) and c‐myc. Based on these observations, we suggest that PUFAs inhibit telomerase activity through dual mechanisms: direct inhibition of enzymatic activity and down regulation of hTERT, one of the telomerase components.
Inhibitory effects of [6]‐gingerol on PMA‐induced COX‐2 expression and activation of NF‐κB and p38 MAPK in mouse skin
Authors: Kim Sue Ok , Chun Kyung‐Soo , Kundu Joydeb Kumar , Surh Young‐Joon
Published: December 2008

[6]‐Gingerol, a major pungent ingredient of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae), has a wide array of pharmacologic effects. Previous studies have demonstrated that [6]‐gingerol inhibits mouse skin tumor promotion and anchorage‐independent growth of cultured mouse epidermal cells stimulated with epidermal growth factor. Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), a key enzyme in the prostaglandin biosynthesis, has been recognized as a molecular target for many anti‐inflammatory as well as chemopreventive agents. Topical application of [6]‐gingerol inhibited phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate ‐induced COX‐2 expression. One of the essential transcription factors responsible for COX‐2 induction is NF‐κB. [6]‐Gingerol suppressed NF‐κB DNA binding activity in mouse skin. In addition, [6]‐gingerol inhibited the phoshorylation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase which may account for its inactivation of NF‐κB and suppression of COX‐2 expression.
Characterization of γ‐terpinene synthase from Citrus unshiu (Satsuma mandarin)
Authors: Suzuki Yukiko , Sakai Hiroshi , Shimada Takehiko , Omura Mitsuo , Kumazawa Shigenori , Nakayama Tsutomu
Published: December 2008

γ‐Terpinene is a monoterpene and a major component of essential oils made from citrus fruits and shows strong antioxidant activity in various assay systems. Plant γ‐terpinene synthase is a member of the monoterpene cyclase family, which produces a specific monoterpene through cyclization of geranyl diphosphate (GPP), but the monoterpene cyclases have not been fully characterized. It is necessary to prepare large amounts of γ‐terpinene synthase from Citrus unshiu (Satsuma mandarin) for the characterization, on this purpose we expressed the protein in Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells. As most monoterpene synthases have plastid‐targeting signals, a gene lacking these signals was prepared and functionally expressed in E. coli cells harboring extra copies of the argU gene. The purified enzyme was incubated with GPP and the main product was confirmed to beγ‐terpinene by GC/MS.
Zerumbone, an anti‐inflammatory phytochemical, induces expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes in human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines
Authors: Murakami Akira , Miyamoto Masaaki , Ohigashi Hajime
Published: December 2008

Zerumbone, a sesquiterpene occurring in zingiberaceous plants in Southeast Asian countries, has been shown to have anti‐inflammatory effects in several independent experimental studies. We examined its effect on the expression of proinflammatory genes in human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines, Caco‐2, Colo320DM, and HT‐29, using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assays. Surprisingly, zerumbone markedly induced the expression of interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in each cell line in concentration‐ and time‐dependent manners. Results of a previous pharmacological approach using specific inhibitors of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) suggested that the activation of both c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase and extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase, however, not that of p38 MAPK, may be involved in zerumbone‐induced IL‐1β expression pathways in Caco‐2 cells. The present results imply that zerumbone increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines in cancerous tissues in the colon and that this biochemical property may cause side‐effects.
Protective effects of green tea catechins on alveolar macrophages against bacterial infections
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshimasa , Matsunaga Kazuto , Friedman Herman
Published: December 2008

Bacterial pneumonia in immunocompromised patients as well as elderly persons often becomes a life threatening disease, even when effective antibiotics are used extensively. In addition, the appearance of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in medical facilities as well as in patients requires another approach to treat such patients besides treatment with antibiotics. In this regard, green tea catechins, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), may be one of the potential agents for such purpose due to its possible potential immunomodulatory as well as antimicrobial activity. The studies by us showed that EGCg enhanced the in vitro resistance of alveolar macrophages to Legionella pneumophila infection by selective immunomodulatory effects on cytokine formation. Furthermore, the tobacco smoking‐induced impairment of alveolar macrophages regarding antibacterial as well as immune activity was also recovered by EGCg treatment. These results indicate that EGCg may be a possible potential immunotherapeutic agent against respiratory infections in immunocompromised patients, such as heavy smokers.
Production of nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 by RAW264.7 macrophage cells treated with lactic acid bacteria isolated from kimchi
Authors: Hur Haeng Jeon , Lee Ki Won , Lee Hyong Joo
Published: December 2008

The present study investigated immunopotentiating activities of lactic acid bacteria isolated from kimchi (KLAB) in vitro. A RAW264.7 macrophage cell line was stimulated with four strains of KLAB and two strains of bifidobacteria, and then the production of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines ‐ tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) ‐ was determined. Lactobacillus plantarum, a lactic acid bacteria involved in the latent fermentation of kimchi, was the most effective for the generation of NO, TNF‐α, and IL‐6 in macrophage. All strains generated NO, while for the TNF‐α and IL‐6, only L. plantarum had significant activity. Our results indicate that L. plantarum plays an important role in the immunopotentiating activity of kimchi.
Isolation and identification of lactic acid bacteria with effect of immune protection to Eschericia coli in mice
Authors: Ishida‐Fujii Keiko , Goto Shingo , Kuboki Hiroshi , Hirano Shin‐Ichi , Sakamoto Michiko , Sato Michikatsu
Published: December 2008

Lactic acid bacteria were isolated from an alcohol fermentation broth, and the activity as a probiotic was examined using pathogenic E. coli. Thirty‐six strains exhibiting good growth were isolated in the medium of concentrated mush which was a residue resulted in the alcohol distillation process. One of these strains, Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei I‐5, could be grown in the medium containing 8 vol% ethanol and at 45°C. The characteristics were different from the type strain, L. paracasei subsp. paracasei NBRC 15889T. L. paracasei I‐5 showed an excellent growth in the concentrated mush, which just diluted two‐fold and adjusted the pH. ICR mice were fed with a standard germ‐free feed (CMF) and the strain I‐5 (7 × 109 cells/day) was orally administrated for 11 days prior to the intraperitoneal challenge with pathogenic E. coli Juhl. After the challenge, mice administrated the strain I‐5 exhibited a high survival rate and survival extension days (p < 0.01) compared with the control. The results suggested that the strain might enhance the animal resistance against microbial pathogens. Neonatal diarrhea caused by E. coli is a serious disease in calf breeding. The strain might be practically valuable to prevent diarrhea in calves.
Hepatoprotective activity of tocha, the stems and leaves of Ampelopsis grossedentata, and ampelopsin
Authors: Murakami Toshiyuki , Miyakoshi Masazumi , Araho Daisuke , Mizutani Kenji , Kambara Toshimitsu , Ikeda Takao , Chou Wen‐Hua , Inukai Mihoko , Takenaka Asako , Igarashi Kiharu
Published: December 2008

Hepatoprotective effect of the leaves and stems of Ampelopsis grossedentata together with its main constituent, ampelopsin, were examined on D‐galactosamine induced liver injury in rats. The diet containing 50% ethanolic extract (1%) and ampelopsin (0.1%) markedly suppressed the increase of LDH, ALT, AST, α‐tocopherol levels and GSG/GSSH caused by GalN treatment. These results suggested that ampelopsin from Tocha acted to prevent the oxidative stress in vivo that may have been due to active oxygen species formed by a macrophage by the action of GalN.
Oral administration of hydrolyzed rice bran prevents the common cold syndrome in the elderly based on its immunomodulatory action
Authors: Maeda Hiroaki , Ichihashi Kenichi , Fujii Takako , Omura Kazunobu , Zhu Xia , Anazawa Mari , Tazawa Kenji
Published: December 2008

The preventive effect of Hydrolyzed Rice Bran against the common cold syndrome was examined in elderly people. Arabinoxylan derivatives of Hydrolyzed Rice Bran (HRB) were prepared from water‐soluble rice bran through partial processing using a carbohydrate complex. Using the water‐soluble Rice Bran (RB) as a control, a cross over double‐blind study was conducted on both substances over a 6‐week administration period. Fifty elderly people aged from 70 to 95 years participated in the study and the comparative data from 36 participants were analyzed. There were no withdrawals from in the study due to the side effects of the experimental foods. Symptoms were observed and scored. The total symptom score for the RB treatment group was three times higher than that for the HRB treatment group. The average duration of symptoms was 2.6 days for RB whereas it was only 1.2 days for HRB. Furthermore, some immunomodulatory action was observed in laboratory tests. HRB was shown to be useful in reducing the physical stress associated with acute respiratory tract infection.
Antioxidative properties of lycopene and other carotenoids from tomatoes: Synergistic effects
Authors: Shi John , Kakuda Yukio , Yeung David
Published: December 2008

Lycopene is the major carotenoid in tomatoes. Tomatoes contain a matrix of many bioactive components, including vitamin C, vitamin E, other carotenoids (a‐, β‐, γ‐ carotene, lutein), and flavonoids. Their synergistic interactions, when used in combination, may be responsible for the observed beneficial effects of tomato‐based products. This study investigated the synergistic antioxidant activity of lycopene in combination with β‐carotene, vitamin E, and lutein. A liposome system was used to test the synergistic antioxidant activity. The carotenoid mixtures were more efficient in protecting liposome from oxidation than the individual carotenoid. Mixtures of lycopene and vitamin E appear to have the greatest synergistic antioxidant activity.
Chemistry and antioxidative activity of hot water extract of Japanese radish (daikon)
Authors: Katsuzaki Hirotaka , Miyahara Yoshiyuki , Ota Masnobu , Imai Kunio , Komiya Takashi
Published: December 2008

The comparison of antioxidative activity between the hot water extract and ambient water extract of Japanese radish (daikon) was carried out. The activity of the hot water extract was higher than that of the ambient water extract. One of the antioxidants was isolated as L‐tryptophan that should no change in its amount that was determined between the hot water extract and ambient water extract. Moreover, tryptophan changed to 5‐hydroxy tryptophan in the rat liver microsome model. This phenomenon may show that tryptophan is changed to another antioxidant in the body.
Benzyl isothiocyanate inhibits oxidative stress in mouse skin: Involvement of attenuation of leukocyte infiltration
Authors: Nakamura Yoshimasa , Miyoshi Noriyuki , Takabayashi Satoko , Osawa Toshihiko
Published: December 2008

The exposure of benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) to mouse skin resulted in the attenuation of 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA)‐induced oxidative damage through not only inhibition of the NADPH oxidase system but also leukocyte clearance at inflamed region. In spite of little ability to affect TPA‐induced edema formation, pretreatments of mouse skin with BITC before the first or second TPA treatment significantly decrease the H2O2 level. A histological study also demonstrated that BITC enhanced the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)‐positive index in mouse skin, suggesting that BITC might accelerate the disappearance of infiltrated leukocytes. Thus, these gathered data further supported that BITC has a potential as an anti‐inflammatory agent.