bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin B6 status of 20–59 y old adults in South Korea
Authors: Kim Young-Nam , Kim Sungah , Cho Youn-Ok
Published: June 2021

To determine dietary vitamin B6 intakes and plasma pyridoxal 5‐ phosphate (PLP) concentrations and to evaluate vitamin B6 status of Korean adults, three consecutive 24‐h food recalls and fasting blood samples were collected from healthy 20–59 y old adults (n=105) living in Seoul and Gyeonggi areas, South Korea. The mean intake of vitamin B6 was 2.06 mg/day. The average ratio of vitamin B6 intake to daily protein intake was 0.027 mg/g protein. Only 4.8% of subjects consumed less than Korean Estimated Average Requirements and 6.2% consumed less than Recommended Nutrient intakes for vitamin B6. None of the subjects consumed vitamin B6 over Tolerable Upper Intake Level for Koreans. The mean plasma PLP level (mean/SD) was 24.6/14.2 nmol/L. There was no significant correlation in vitamin B6 intakes and plasma PLP concentrations (P>=0.05). Approximately 49% of subjects had plasma PLP concentrations <20 nmol/L, which is indicative of vitamin B6 inadequacy status. In conclusion, although vitamin B6 intakes of the subjects were generally adequate, a half of these Korean adults had inadequate vitamin B6 status. Supported by 2011 research fund of National Research Foundation of Korea (2011‐0003749).
Biofortified maize (Zea mays L.) provides more bioavailable iron than standard maize: Studies in poultry (Gallus gallus) and an in vitro digestion/Caco‐2 model
Authors: Tako Elad , Hoekenga Owen A , Kochian Leon V , Glahn Raymond P
Published: June 2021

Iron biofortification is a strategy that alleviates Fe deficiency by improving staple crops, such as maize. Previously, we demonstrated that by using a Caco2 cell model, two maize varieties were developed for high and low Fe bioavailability, yet with similar Fe concentrations. In vitro and in vivo assessments of Fe bioavailability in these lines showed an advantage to the high Fe variety. In the current study, we tested bioavailable Fe in the consecutive growth cycles of these maize lines, in addition we compared the Fe bioavailability between cooked and raw maize +/− added Fe in the maize based diets. Diets were made with 75% w/w maize of either the low (“Low”) or high (“High”) Fe bioavailability maize. Chicks (n=10) were fed the maize diets for 7 weeks. Hemoglobin (Hb), body weight, feed consumption, liver ferritin and gene expression were measured. Duodenal DMT1, Dcytb and ferroportin were higher (P<0.05) in the “Low” groups vs. the “High” groups, indicating adaptation to the “Low” diets. Hb concentrations, Hb‐maintenance efficiency, Hb‐Fe and liver ferritin were higher in the “High“ groups vs. the “Low” groups (P<0.05), indicating greater Fe absorption from the diet and improved Fe status. We conclude that the “High” variety contains more bioavailable Fe than the ”Low” and that maize shows promise for Fe biofortification. Also, the increased Fe bioavailability quality is kept in the biofortified maize daughter lines.
Dietary Silicon Intake of Korean Young Adult Males and its Relation to their Bone Status
Authors: Choi Mi-Kyeong , Kim Mi-Hyun
Published: June 2021

To investigate the dietary intake status and to examine the potential role of dietary silicon intake in bone status of men, a total of 469 healthy Korean adult males aged 19–29 were observed for their diet intake and calcaneus bone density using the 3‐day 24‐hr recall method and quantitative ultrasound, respectively. Critical markers reflecting bone metabolism such as blood total alkaline phosphatase, N‐mid osteocalcin, and 1CTP concentrations were also analyzed. For quantitative data on the intake levels of silicon, we analyzed the silicon content of 363 typical Korean foods and the mean value for each food was adopted. Silicon intake of the subjects was estimated at 47.4±31.1 mg/day. The silicon intake level turned out to be higher than that in the western world (37±23 mg/day). Major sources of dietary silicon in the Korean male were vegetables (21.1% of total silicon intake), cereals and their products (19.8 %), oils and fats (18.3%), and beverages (17.4%). Silicon intake correlated positively with age and negatively with 1CTP. After adjusted with age, BMI, and intake of Ca and energy, silicon intake had no correlation with calcaneus bone density and the bone metabolism markers. These findings show that the relation between dietary silicon intake and the bone status of Korean young adult males is not clear, and further analysis is needed.
Evaluation of a human efficacy trial: tracking biofortified iron through an intervention
Authors: DellaValle Diane M. , Haas Jere D. , Boy Erick , Shamah-Levy Teresa , Villalpando Salvador , Glahn Raymond P.
Published: June 2021

Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutrient deficiency in the world, a major cause of which is a lack of bioavailable dietary iron (Fe). Black beans are consumed as a staple food in Latin America, and were the intervention used in a trial to study the effects of consuming a biofortified food on Fe status of Mexican school children. We evaluated samples of raw, cooked, and mixed meals containing high‐Fe (intervention) and control beans for Fe concentration and relative Fe bioavailability using the in vitro digestion / Caco‐2 cell model. Fe concentration of raw and cooked high‐Fe bean were 27 and 43 ppm higher, respectively (p<0.001) compared to the control, confirming that the harvested crop was biofortified. However, analysis of the mixed meal showed no difference in Fe concentration between groups. The high‐Fe bean demonstrated a higher bioavailability response compared to the control (p=0.02), as measured by the in vitro model. There was no difference between groups in the raw or meal sample. Fe concentration and bioavailability were correlated in the cooked sample (r=0.59, p<0.001), as well as the mixed meals (r=0.47, p<0.001). These results show the complexity of conducting a human feeding trial under free‐living conditions, as well as the necessity of tracking biofortified Fe in the diet while conducting these types of studies.
Formate metabolism in the folate‐deficient rat
Authors: Morrow G. P. , Lamarre S. G. , Brosnan M. E. , Brosnan J. T.
Published: June 2021

Formate may arise from amino acid metabolism (serine, glycine, histidine, tryptophan, and methionine), from demethylation reactions, and methanol catabolism. Plasma [formate] is approximately 50 μM in rats. We have shown that plasma and urinary formate are increased up to 6‐fold in either folate‐deficient or Vitamin B12‐deficient rats, and may be a useful marker for remethylation defects. We therefore determined formate production rates in folate‐deficient and control rats. Rats were fed a folate‐deficient diet for 18 days; controls received a folate‐replete diet. Formate appearance was determined by means of a constant infusion of NaH13CO2. Plateau isotopic enrichment in formate was determined via GC‐MS. The rate of formate production in folate‐deficient rats was 43±4 umol/hr/100g compared to 76±16 umol/hr/100g for control rats (P<0.001). This decreased rate of formate production in the face of elevated [formate] implies an appreciable impairment in formate removal. In control rats, formate production amounted to 40% of the total potential one‐carbon groups generated from the diet. We conclude that formate production is a major, though unrecognized, motif in amino acid catabolism.

Grant Funding Source: Canadian Institutes for Health Research and Memorial University of Newfoundland
Elevation of folate status in humans by 5‐methyl‐6S‐tetrahydrofolate
Authors: Bailey Steven W. , Ayling June E.
Published: June 2021

Several earlier studies have examined the ability of folic acid or 5‐methyl‐6S‐tetrahydrofolate (5MTHF) to elevate folate status. Typically, these involved doses in the range of 0.45 to 1.8 micromoles/d (e.g., 0.2 to 0.8 mg/d of folic acid). Even with a 0.8 mg/d dose of folic acid, fasting plasma total folate reaches a new plateau only after 4 weeks. Although moderately high doses of 5MTHF are currently used for many applications, little is known about the properties of this natural vitamer in repleting body stores of folate when administered in successive daily doses. Moreover, the ability to maintain plasma levels on low (e.g., Daily Value) doses of folate subsequent to brief administration of 5MTHF has not been previously examined. We selected volunteers with fasting total serum folate <25 nM, who were then given 7.5 mg of 5MTHF at various intervals over two to three days along with vitamin B12. Subjects were next switched to either 0.4 or 0.8 mg/d of folate and followed for another two weeks. Serum 5MTHF and total folate were measured over the course of the experiment. The results show that particular regimes of 5MTHF administration can significantly raise serum folate in just a few days. Further, this new status can then be maintained by consumption of the Daily Value for folate.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on human skeletal muscle composition and regeneration
Authors: Houston Denise K , Messi Maria L , Birbrair Alexander , Demons Jamehl , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Delbono Osvaldo
Published: June 2021

Vitamin D has been shown to be important for maintaining muscle integrity and neuromuscular function; however, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. We conducted a 4‐month randomized, controlled pilot study to examine the effect of 2000 IU/day vitamin D3 plus 1200 mg/day calcium (D+Ca) vs. 1200 mg/day calcium alone (Ca only) on physiological changes in muscle function in older community‐dwelling adults at risk for disability with baseline 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations <25 ng/mL. Muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were taken at baseline and at 4‐month follow‐up (D+Ca, n=4; Ca only, n=2). Comparison of pre‐ and post‐supplementation muscle samples showed increases in type II (fast‐twitch; +130% vs. −71% in D+Ca vs. Ca only) and decreases in type I (slow‐twitch; −57% vs. +153% in D+Ca vs. Ca only) muscle fibers in participants taking vitamin D plus calcium; downregulation of Runx1 (−48% vs. +169% in D+Ca vs. Ca only) and a decrease in the percent of NCAM+ cells (−30% vs. +210% in D+Ca vs. Ca only), markers of muscle denervation; and induction of fewer Pax7/NCAM positive satellite cells, suggesting that vitamin D may evoke satellite cell differentiation. Thus, vitamin D appears to improve skeletal muscle composition and regeneration by ameliorating myofiber denervation and promoting satellite cell differentiation. Supported by a grant from the NIA (R01 AG029364).
Vitamin A supplementation in low birth weight piglets using a vitamin A depleted swine model
Authors: Heying Emily , Arscott Sara , Tanumihardjo Sherry
Published: June 2021

Current vitamin A supplementation methods for infants in vitamin A deficient populations have no specific dosing regimen regarding birth weight. A proposed intervention is to administer 50,000 IU retinyl palmitate to newborn infants to reduce mortality risk. Low birth weight and normal birth weight piglets were dosed with two different amounts of vitamin A to compare liver vitamin A reserves and overall vitamin A status at 12 and 24 hours after supplementation. Sows (Sus scrofa domesticus) were fed a vitamin A deficient wheat diet throughout gestation and lactation. Sibling‐pair piglets weighing <1 kg and >1.5 kg were given 25,000 IU or 50,000 IU retinyl palmitate at birth, with blood collection occurring at varying time points after dose. Piglets were killed at 12 and 24 hours after the dose for organ and serum collection. Serum, liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, adrenals, and pooled intestinal content were analyzed for vitamin A using HPLC methods. The results of this study will lend support to research currently being performed in developing countries where liver reserves and tissue distribution of vitamin A of infants are not accessible.

Funded by the World Health Organization.
Effects of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone changes in male competitive road cyclists
Authors: Sherk Vanessa Dawn , Barry Daniel W , Hansen Kent C , Villalon Karen L , Wolfe Pamela , Johnson Susan , Kohrt Wendy M
Published: June 2021

The purpose was to determine the effects of taking Ca and vitamin D before or after training sessions on bone changes over 1 year in male competitive cyclists. Male cyclists (n=52) aged 18–45 yr were randomized into 2 groups, taking Ca and vitamin D either 30 minutes BEFORE or 1 hour AFTER their usual training sessions for 12 months. Lumbar spine and proximal femur areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) were assessed by DXA before and after the intervention. Tibia volumetric BMD (vBMD), BMC, area, and strength (Ip) were assessed by pQCT at the 4%, 38%, and 66% sites in a subset (n=23). Total hip and trochanter aBMD losses were (mean±SD) ‐ 0.9±2.4% and −0.9±2.3% (both p<0.05) and were not affected by treatment. Time‐by‐treatment interaction effects were significant (p<0.05) for cortical BMC and area at the 38% site, and total vBMD, area, and Ip at the 66% site. When corrected for baseline values, there were significant (p<0.05) group differences in total and cortical BMC and cortical area changes at the 38% site, as increases were larger (0.9–1.5% vs. 0.1–0.6%) in the AFTER group. At the 66% site, total vBMD change was more negative (−1.1 ± 1.2% vs. 0.1±1.3%) in the AFTER group, yet Ip change was more positive (1.6±1.7% vs. 0.3±1.0, p<0.05). Bone changes were site‐specific and likely affected by both mechanical and metabolic factors. Mechanisms underlying the regional loss of BMD in cyclists are unclear.
Vitamin D supplementation and muscle responses in early pubertal adolescents
Authors: Wright Christian , Laing Emma , Williams Jamie , Pollock Norman , Hausman Dorothy , Weaver Connie , Martin Berdine , McCabe George , Peacock Munro , Warden Stuart , Hill Kathleen , Lewis Richard
Published: June 2021

Though studies in older adults suggest that vitamin D supplementation improves muscle mass and strength, pediatric data are scant and equivocal. We determined the dose‐response effect of oral vitamin D on muscle parameters in 320 early pubertal (9–13 y), male and female, black and white children recruited from US latitudes 34°N and 40°N, and randomly assigned to five experimental conditions: 0, 400, 1000, 2000 or 4000 IU/d vitamin D3 for 12 wks (in winter). Muscle parameters [Fat‐free soft tissue (FFST) by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, cross‐sectional muscle area (MSCA) and muscle density by peripheral quantitative computed tomography, forearm strength by hand‐grip dynamometry] and serum [25(OH)D by RIA, parathyroid hormone (PTH) by IRMA] were measured at baseline and 12 wks. Though FFST and radial and tibial MCSA increased over 12 wks (time effect, p<.01), there was no dose‐response effect of vitamin D on muscle parameters. Partial correlations adjusting for race and sex revealed that 12‐wk changes in (Δ) PTH were positively associated with ΔFFST (r=.21; p=.03) and Δtibial MCSA (r=.23; p=.02). Δ25(OH)D was not associated with Δmuscle parameters. Our data suggest that 12 wks of vitamin D supplementation does not affect muscle mass and strength in early pubertal children. Whether the observations with respect to PTH and muscle are clinically relevant should be further explored. Supported by NICHD, R01HD057126.
Selenium‐induced senescence involves heterochromatin formation
Authors: Rouse Jallah J , Cheng Wen-Hsing
Published: June 2021

Selenium can induce a senescence response in a manner depending on ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). During cellular senescence, induction of heterochromatin is known to suppress the transcription of genes in association with proliferation. Although senescence can be initiated by oncogene induction and telomere attrition, only the former can induce the formation of senescence‐associated heterochromatin foci (SAHF). To test the hypothesis that selenium‐induced senescence involves SAHF, MRC‐5 normal cells were treated with methylseleninic acid (MSeA, 0–2 μM) for 2 days, followed by a 7‐day recovery and detection of histone H3 Lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) and heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1γ), markers of SAHF. Results from immunofluorescence analyses demonstrated the expression of H3K9me3 and HP1γ foci and formation of heterochromatin in senescent MRC‐5 cells treated with MSeA. Together with our other results, we propose that the efficacy of selenium chemoprevention can be improved by targeting DNA damage response pathways in combination with chromatin modulation.
Selenium inhibits the histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity of KAT3B in macrophages
Authors: Narayan Vivek , Kodihalli Ravindra , Prabhu K. Sandeep
Published: June 2021

Abnormal regulation of epigenetic modifications forms the underlying basis of overexpression of inflammatory genes, and is a key component in several diseases including cancer and AIDS. The ability of nutrients to modulate epigenetic regulatory processes has offered potential explanations as to the role of diet in modifying disease risk. We have discovered a novel mechanism of epigenetic control by the micronutrient selenium (Se) in murine macrophages that could negatively impact the overexpression of proinflammatory genes. Supplementation of an endotoxins‐timulated murine macrophage cell‐line resulted in a significant decrease in the acetylation of histones and the non‐histone protein p65. Our studies demonstrate that Se inhibits the HAT activity of KAT3B (p300) via the modulation of cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway that involved Se‐dependent production of a stable antiinflammatory prostaglandin (PG) Δ12‐PGJ2. Furthermore, using biochemical, genetic, and molecular modeling studies, we show that Δ12‐PGJ2 covalently modifies a key cysteine residue in the HAT domain of KAT3B, thus inhibiting its activity. Se supplementation resulted in a similar decrease in histone acetylation when used in an HIV‐infection model. These studies suggest the ability of Se in epigenetic modulation of gene expression via an intriguing mechanism that involves endogenous fatty acid metabolites. NIH DK 077152
Selenium supplementation as a cure for leukemia – Eradication of Leukemic Stem Cells
Authors: GANDHI UJJAWAL H. , Hegde Shailaja N. , Kaushal Naveen , Paulson Robert , Prabhu K. Sandeep
Published: June 2021

The micronutrient selenium (Se) has been demonstrated to have anti‐leukemic effects but there are no studies showing the ability of Se to affect leukemia stem cells (LSC), which are responsible for maintenance and relapse. We hypothesize that Se can specifically target LSCs via their ability to shunt arachidonic acid metabolism towards cyclooxygenase (COX)‐derived pro‐apoptotic metabolite, 15d‐prostaglandin (PG) J2 in vivo. We have used three murine models of leukemia involving transplantation of BCR‐ABL‐transduced LSCs, MLL‐AF9‐transduced LSCs, or infection with Friend virus. In all these models, mice on Se‐deficient (0.01 ppm selenite) or Se‐adequate (0.1 ppm selenite) diets succumbed to leukemia; while the mice maintained on Se‐supplemented (0.4 ppm selenite) diets displayed absence of disease with normal WBC counts and spleen size, and an absence of LSCs (Kit+Sca+). These effects of Se were blocked when the mice were treated with a COX‐inhibitor, indomethacin, suggesting that COX metabolites play a pivotal role. Furthermore, upon comparing the effect of conventionally used chemotherapeutic agent imatinib with that of Se supplementation, mice in the former group showed relapse of disease upon discontinuation of therapy. All these studies show that Se taken in supplemental quantities can potentially cure leukemia by selectively eradicating LSCs via anti‐proliferative COX metabolites. NIH DK077152

Grant Funding Source : NIH DK077152
Dietary canola oil and growth of implanted drug‐resistant MCF‐7 human breast cancer in Balb/c nude mice
Authors: Mabasa Lawrence , Cho Kyongshin , Bae Sajin , Walters Mark William , Park Chung S
Published: June 2021

The objective of the project was to determine the extent to which dietary canola oil (CAN) increases susceptibility of drug resistant human breast cancer cells to treatment. Treatment of doxorubicin (DOX)‐resistant MCF‐7 breast cancer cells in vitro with DOX plus CAN significantly suppressed cell proliferation as compared to the control, DOX, or CAN‐treated cells. To determine the effect of CAN on tumor growth and sensitivity to treatment in vivo, nude mice were fed either a soybean oil‐containing diet (SOY) or CAN diet and then implanted with DOX‐resistant human breast cancer cells to grow cancer. The CAN diet reduced tumor growth and also improved the tumor growth inhibitory effect of DOX on drug‐resistant cancer cells. Using qPCR, we observed that mRNA expression of both the P‐glycoprotein‐encoding multidrug resistant 1 gene and the mouse double minute 2 gene in tumor tissues were reduced by the CAN diet. Our findings suggest that a CAN diet inhibits tumor growth and sensitizes drug‐resistant breast cancer cells to treatment, due in part to alteration of gene expression. Overall, these novel findings advance the understanding of the role of dietary fat in breast cancer treatment, and future studies aimed at elucidating the detailed mechanism through which CAN affects drug resistant cancer cells are warranted. Research was funded by United States Department of Agriculture‐ National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Grant Funding Source : USDA‐NIFA
Suppression of early colon cancer lesions by apigenin and naringenin is in part due to their downregulation of p21, TLR‐4, and MCT‐1 expression
Authors: Daniels Wesley Danielle , Garcia Tanya P. , Carroll Raymond J. , Patil Bhimanagouda S. , Turner Nancy D.
Published: June 2021

We have shown that apigenin and naringenin (flavonoids) suppress colon carcinogenesis by inducing apoptosis and suppressing proliferation in rats. The goal of this experiment was to test the hypothesis that apigenin and naringenin affect proliferation and apoptosis by regulating expression of genes involved in microbial recognition (TLR‐2, TLR‐4), short‐chain fatty acid transport (MCT‐1), cell cycle (p21), and apoptosis (Bax, Bcl‐2, Fas). Rats received diets (0.02% naringenin, 0.1% apigenin, or control) for 10 wk and were treated with AOM at wk 3 and 4. Apigenin suppressed (p<0.05) MCT‐1 expression compared to control, with naringenin being intermediate. Apigenin and naringenin suppressed (p<0.01) p21 expression. Expression of TLR‐4, a promoter of proliferation, also was suppressed by apigenin and naringenin (p<0.04). Diet did not affect expression of Bax, Bcl‐2, Fas, or TLR‐2. Considering MCT‐1 is a butyrate transporter and butyrate induces colonocyte p21 expression, it is possible that suppression of p21 by apigenin and naringenin may be a MCT‐1 mediated effect. Reduction of MCT‐1, p21, and TLR‐4 expression by apigenin and naringenin could have contributed to apoptosis induction and suppression of proliferation. Thus, both apigenin and naringenin were able to reduce colon carcinogenesis through their influence on expression of genes involved in multiple pathways. Funding USDA 2010‐34402‐20875.
Comparative effects of soluble fiber (konjac glucomannan and oligofructose‐rich inulin) and insoluble fiber cellulose on the colonic apoptotic response to acute azoxymethane challenge
Authors: Wu Wen-Tzu Irene , Chen Hsiao-Ling
Published: June 2021

This study was to compare effects of konjac glucomannan (KGM), inulin and cellulose over the 24‐h apoptotic responses of colonic epithelium cells to an acute azoxymethane (AOM) and cecal short‐chain fatty acids, in mice. Six‐week‐old male C57BL/6J mice (n=72) were randomly assigned to an AIN‐76 modified high‐fat (20%, w/w) low‐fiber (1% cellulose, w/w) control diet or that supplemented with 5% (w/w) of KGM, inulin or cellulose for 3 weeks. Mice were administered with AOM (10 mg/kg B.W., i.p.) on the 22th day and sacrificed at 0, 6 and 24 h afterwards. Results indicated that the AOM significantly elevated the apoptotic index (AI, apoptotic cells to total cells in a crypt) in the proximal colon of inulin and cellulose groups at 6 and 24 h, of KGM group at 24 h, as compared to those of themselves at 0 h. In the distal colon, AOM promoted the AI of control and cellulose groups to 2–3 folds during the 24‐h period, as compared to that of themselves at 0 h. In contrast, AOM promoted AI of the KGM group to 6 and 5 folds, of the inulin group to 4 and 2.5 folds at 6 and 24 h, as compared to that of themselves at 0 h. Further, KGM was the only fiber that promoted the cecal butyrate concentration. Therefore, KGM showed the most effective fiber in this study to defend against the acute challenge by AOM. This study was supported by the National Science Council Grant NSC‐99‐2320‐B‐040‐014‐MY2, Taiwan.
Sage (Salvia Officinalis) ameliorates experimentally induced neurodegeneration in C. elegans
Authors: Jamison Brandon Y , Gomada Yuki , Maitin Vatsala , Vattem Dhiraj A
Published: June 2021

Dysregulation of neuronal stress response signaling has been implicated in neurodegenerative pathologies and is an emerging target for drug discovery. Sage was previously reported to beneficially modulate stress response signaling in C. elegans and may have therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the in vivo neuroprotective effects of sage extracts in experimentally induced neurodegeneration in C. elegans. For AD, time to thermally induced Aβ1–42 aggregation mediated paralysis was evaluated in transgenic C. elegans (CL4176). For PD, MPP+ induced neurodegeneration was qualtified by loss in motility and degradation of GFP signal in wild type and transgenic C. elegans. Evaluation with fractionated sage extract characterized by HPLC/DAD/ELSD/MS suggests polar acidic fraction to be most effective and reduced Aβ1–42 induced paralysis by 15%. In the MPP+ induced neurodegeneration for PD, bioactive compounds in polar acidic fraction were most effective and decreased paralysis in wild type worms by 17%.

Grant Funding Source : VRDÜR FOUNDATION
Consumption of cranberry beverage protected against oxidative damage, inflammation and bacteria adhesion in healthy humans
Authors: Chew Boon P , Mathison Bridget D , Kimble Lindsey L , Kaspar Kerrie L , Khoo Christina
Published: June 2021

We studied the health benefits of acute cranberry beverage consumption on oxidative damage, inflammation, and anti‐bacterial adhesion activity of urine in healthy humans. Six males and 6 females (18–35 yr old; BMI 19–25 kg/m^2) consumed 15.2 oz placebo, cranberry extract beverage (CEB) and low calorie cranberry juice cocktail (LCJC) in a randomized, cross‐over, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled experimental design. Washout between beverages was 1 week. Blood was collected at 0, 2, 4, 8 and 24 h after beverage consumption for measuring oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers. Urine was collected at 0, 0–3, 3–6, 6–9, 9–12 and 24 h post‐intervention. Consumption of CEB elevated (P < 0.05) blood superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and decreased (P < 0.05) plasma nitric oxide (NO) compared to placebo. LCJC consumption increased (P < 0.05) SOD and reduced‐glutathione (GSH), and decreased (P < 0.05) NO. Neither cranberry beverage significantly changed concentrations of plasma 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine, inflammatory cytokines and total antioxidant capacity. At 0–3 h, participants who consumed cranberry beverages had higher (P < 0.05) ex vivo anti‐adhesion activity against P‐fimbriated E. coli compared to placebo. An acute dose of cranberry beverages reduced oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers and improved inhibition of bacterial adhesion by urine. Funded by Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc.
Tragopogon Porrifolius improves serum lipid profile and increases short‐term satiety in rats
Authors: Zeeni Nadine , Daher Costantine F , Mroueh Mohammad
Published: June 2021

Tragopogon Porrifolius is an edible plant commonly used in folk medicine in Mediterranean countries. This study investigates the potential role of aqueous extract of the aerial part of T. porrifolius in lipemia, and appetite regulation using the rat model. Food intake, abdominal fat percent, blood lipid profile, liver weights and liver enzymes were assessed after 4 weeks of extract intake via drinking water (50, 100, or 250 mg/kg bodyweight) in standard and high‐fat dietary conditions. In a separate study, the short term effect of T. porrifolius water extract on food intake was assessed. Results showed that treatment for four weeks with the plant extract caused a marked improvement in the lipid profile (triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol). Body weight, food intake and intra‐abdominal fat were also lower in animals given the plant extract at doses of 100 and 250 mg/kg body weight. In addition, T. porrifolius extract preload produced a dose dependent decrease in food intake observed over 24 hours. In conclusion, the aqueous extract of T. porrifolius exhibited potential benefits in lipemia and increased satiety with no visible adverse effect.
Effect of Fructooligosaccharides on Improvement of Blood Glucose, Calcium Status and Habitual Bowel Movement among College Students in Korea
Authors: Lee Bog-Hieu , Kim Eun Jin , Kim Mi Young , Choi Joo-Yeon , Yu Miri
Published: June 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) on blood glucose, calcium status and habitual bowel movement among college students for 2 weeks. Fifty‐one subjects (male=9, female=42) were randomly assigned to five groups; aspartame (A), sugar (B), low‐FOS (C), high‐FOS (D) and low‐FOS+milk (E). We analyzed blood chemical profiles and surveyed habitual bowel movements by questionnaire. After FOS intake trial, serum glucose level was decreased in FOS groups (C:− 2.78±4.09 mg/dl, D:−4.60±10.48 mg/dl, E:−5.33±3.74 mg/dl), while increased in groups A (+0.78±5.17 mg/dl) and B (+0.78±7.28 mg/dl ). Ionized Ca and Ca concentration were the highest in group E and vitamin D3 concentration was the highest in group D. Especially, Ca concentration was significantly higher in FOS groups than groups A and B and was the highest in group E (0.81±0.35 mg/dl) among the treatments. Blood calcitonin concentration was increased in groups C (+0.14±1.07 pg/ml), D (+2.48±7.63 pg/ml) and E (+3.16±8.91 pg/ml), but decreased in groups A (−0.32±1.34 pg/ml) and B (−1.40±2.45 pg/ml). Habitual bowel movement tended to improve in FOS groups. Frequency of defecation and gas discharging were the highest in group E. Stool amounts were increased only in group E. Therefore, FOS supplementation might be a good way to improve blood glucose and calcium metabolism and also, FOS supplementation with milk be the better choice than the FOS alone.
Anticancer and antimetastatic effects of bamboo salt
Authors: Park Kun-Young , Zhao Xin
Published: June 2021

Bamboo salt is a traditional healthy salt known in Korea. In vitro anticancer effects of the bamboo salts were evaluated using the MTT assay in HT‐29 human colon cancer cells and AGS human gastric carcinoma cells. At the concentration of 1% in HT‐29 cells, the growth inhibitory rate of bamboo salt (9×, 9 times baked) was 57%, higher than those of bamboo salt (3×) and bamboo salt (1×) (46% and 42%, respectively), however, solar salt and purified salt showed relatively lower inhibitory effects of 25% and 21%, respectively. The anticancer effect on the AGS human gastric carcinoma cells by the aqueous solutions of the salt samples was basically same trend as shown in with HT‐29 human colon cancer cells growth inhibitory effect. At 1%, the growth inhibitory rates of bamboo salt (9×), bamboo salt (3×), bamboo salt (1×), solar salt and purified salt were 51%, 41%, 36%, 20% and 15%, respectively. To determine an inhibitory mechanism of the growth of cancer cells by the bamboo salt samples, apoptosis related gene expressions of Bax and Bcl‐2 in the HT‐29 and AGS cells were determined by RT‐PCR and Western blot. Bamboo salt (9×) significantly increased Bax and decreased Bcl‐2 expressions compared to 1 and 3 times baked bamboo salt samples, solar salt and purified salt samples. Bamboo salts showed much better in vivo anticancer activity than solar salt and purified salt on tumor metastasis induced by colon 26‐M3.1 carcinoma cells in mice, however, purified salt increased metastasis in the mouse. From the results, 9 times baked bamboo salt showed the best in vitro anticancer effects in the cancer cells and antimetastatic effects in the mice, 1 time and 3 times baked bamboo salt showed the better anticancer effects than the purified and solar salt. This research was supported by National Academy of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Korea.
Antitumor activities and immunoregulation effects of fermented sesame sauce in Sarcoma 180 tumor‐bearing mice
Authors: Park Kun-Young , Song Jiale , Choi Jung-Ho , Seo Jae-Hoon
Published: June 2021

The aims of this study were to investigate the antitumor activities and immunoregulation effects of fermented sesame sauce (FSeS) in vivo. Fermented soy sauce (FSS) and acid hydrolyzed soy sauce (AHSS) were used as positive controls. Female Balb/c mice were per‐orally administered with methanolic extracts of the sauces at two different dose of 12.5 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg body weight for 21 days prior to inoculation of Sarcoma 180 cells, and continued for 7 days. The tumor growth inhibition rate of FSeS group was 68.1%, and the inhibition rates were 58.1% and 9.3% in FSS and AHSS groups, respectively. RT‐PCR analysis showed FSeS could induce more apoptosis of S‐180 tumor cells through up‐regulated Bax, p21, p27, p53, caspase‐3, and down‐regulated expressions of Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL, cyclin D1 and PCNA, than those of FSS and AHSS groups. In addition, the immunoregulation effects were determined by the levels of related immune cytokines (TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐4 and IL‐6) through ELISA assay. In cytokine assay, TNF‐α levels of FSeS (57.9 ± 2.5 pg/mL) treated group was higher than those of AHSS treated group (50.9 ± 0.4 pg/mL), but similar to the FSS group. On the other hand, FSeS can effectively increased the levels of IFN‐γ, IL‐1, IL‐2, and decreased IL‐4 and IL‐6 levels, compared to those of FSS and AHSS groups. These results suggested that FSeS can inhibit the growth of the tumor cells through up‐regulated antitumor gene expressions (Bax, p21, p27, p53, caspase‐3), down‐regulated Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL, cyclin D1 and PCNA expressions. However, FSeS also increased the T helper (Th) cells and Cytotoxic T cells to kill the tumor cells. This research was supported by Daesang Corporation, Republic Korea.
Increased Qualities of Doenjang (Korean soybean paste) Prepared with Mixed Starter Cultures and Its Inhibitory Effects on Induction of Acute Colitis in Mice
Authors: Park Kun-Young , Jeong Ji-Kang , Zheng Yanfei , Choi Hye Sun
Published: June 2021

We prepared Doenjang with single starter (Aspergillus oryzae) and mixed starter cultures (Aspergillus oryzae, Bacillus subtilis‐SKm and Lactococcuslactis‐GAm.), and compared their qualities and functionalities. The amino type nitrogen contents and the enzyme activities such as protease, lipase and α‐amylase increased in Doenjang when the mixed starters used. The DPPH free radical scavenging and antiproliferative activities in HT‐29 human colon cancer cells were also greater in Doenjang using the mixed starters than the other. Then, its preventive effects on acute colitis were investigated using in vivo colitis model. Colitis was induced by administration of 4% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) to drinking water for 7 days in BALB/C mice. Doenjang were orally administered at 2 g/kg dose daily until sacrifice. The loss of body weight and shortening of colon length improved in the animals receiving Doenjang using the mixed starters as compared with the colitis‐induced control. Administration of the Doenjang also ameliorated histological score of the colon in DSS‐induced colitis mice. In addition, the treatment of Doenjang significantly repressed the proinflammatory cytokines of TNF‐α, IL‐12, IL‐17α and INF‐γ and the expression of inflammation related genes, such as COX‐2 and iNOS in comparison with the colitis‐induced control (P<0.05). This research is supported by the National Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Rural Development Administration, Korea.
Potential Role for Lactic Acid Bacteria in Immune Modulation
Authors: Karpa Kelly , Paul Ian , Leckie J. Alexander , Shung Sharon , Carkaci-Salli Nurgul , Vrana Kent E. , Mauger David , Fausnight Tracy , Poger Jennifer
Published: June 2021

Many factors, including disrupted gut flora, have been associated with atopic conditions in children. Our objectives were two fold. First, we wished to investigate whether bacterial genera commonly found in the human gut, as well as in commercially‐available probiotic products, influence cytokine secretion in a manner that is consistent with oral tolerance induction. Second, we wished to determine if perinatal factors that disrupt gut flora are associated with food allergies. To accomplish these objectives, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were co‐incubated with lactobacilli/bifidobacteria and birth records of children with food allergies were reviewed. Significant increases in IL‐10, IFN‐γ, and IL‐12 were observed when PBMCs were co‐incubated with lactic acid bacteria. Review of birth records for 291 children (including 99 with food allergies) revealed associations between food allergy diagnosis and male gender (66 vs. 33; p=0.02), maternal intent to breastfeed (p<0.005), and age of mother at delivery (p=0.005). Lactic acid bacteria are potent immunomodulators, although a thorough understanding of the mechanisms underlying food allergies remains to be elucidated.
USE OF A MIXTURE OF PROBIOTIC STRAINS AGAINST SHIGA TOXIN‐PRODUCING ESCHERICHIA COLI (STEC) COLONIZATION IN SHEEP
Authors: Rigobelo Everlon C , Maluta Renato P , Maestá Sirlei A , Lemos Manoel Victor Franco , Avila Fernando A
Published: June 2021

Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains are food‐borne pathogens that cause human diseases, and ruminants are usually important reservoirs of STEC. The first step of enteric infection is colonization of the host's gut mucosal surface by pathogenic strains of bacteria. Probiotic bacteria can decrease the severity of infection by competing for receptors and nutrients and by synthesizing an acid that creates an unfavorable environment for the growth of several bacterial species. The aim of this study was to determine whether the inoculation of sheep with a mixture containing 3 × 108 (CFU) of Bacillus cereus, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Enterococcus faecium strains decrease the colonization of STEC. Sheep that received oral inoculums containing 2 × 109 viable bacteria of STEC carriers of stx1, stx2 and eae genes were compared with others groups that did not receive inoculums. When mixture was inoculated together with the STEC, the numbers of STEC in a population were lower than the group did not receive during the 3a, 5a, 6a and 7a weeks post‐inoculation. Thus, we conclude that this mixture likely presented a potential protective effect in reducing colonization by STEC and can be used as an alternative method to decrease STEC infection in sheep, thereby reducing transmission to humans.

Financial Support: Fapesp Process: 2009/14923‐8
Identification of the protease resistant proteins from the major foods and their interactions to the intestinal mucosa of mouse
Authors: Lee Ju-Young , Lee Jin-Woo , Kim Jong Sang , Lim Jinkyu
Published: June 2021

Interaction between the food proteins and the intestinal mucosa can trigger many physiological changes including allergic reactions. To mimic the digestive system, the proteins from soy, wheat, potato, rice, egg and milk, were digested with the simulated gastric juice and pancreatic juice to obtain the protease resistant food proteins. The proteins were identified by mass analysis and bioinformatics. Majority of the proteins are already known food allergens, and many of them are storage proteins. The protease resistant proteins were coupled to columns and used to purify the interacting proteins on the intestinal mucosa membrane. The purified proteins were analyzed by LC‐mass spectrometry. As we reported previously, the 32 kDa protein was reproducibly identified. These protease resistant food proteins were assessed for the 3–D structures and found to share structural similarities with each other. A human epithelial cell line, IEC‐2, tested for the interaction with the protease resistant proteins were analyzed by proteomic methods for the identification of the proteins involved in cell signaling. The study showed that the interactions can change the phosphorylation status of the signaling proteins responsible for metabolic turnover, cytoskeletal formation and protein turn‐over. This study was supported by a research grant from KRF (2011‐0012683).
Bioactive Compounds and Health Benefits of Traditional Dried Fruits
Authors: Carughi Arianna
Published: June 2021

Traditional dried fruits have a unique spectrum of phenols, polyphenols and tannins. In raisins, the most abundant are the flavonols quercetin and kaempferol, and the phenolic acids caftaric and coutaric acid. In Greek currants vanillic acid and quercetin predominate. Hydroxycinnamates, especially chlorogenic acid isomers are the major phenolics in dried plums and dried apricots. While there is loss and modification of specific polyphenols during drying, total antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content are relatively unchanged. In human intervention studies, dried fruit have been shown to lower postprandial insulin response, modulate sugar absorption, promote satiety‐related hormones, affect certain oxidative biomarkers, decrease cholesterol levels, and affect markers of DNA damage. Adding raisins to cereal has been shown to attenuate acid production by tooth plaque bacteria. Dried plums have been shown to have a role in preventing and possibly reversing bone loss. Dried fruit posses other bioactive compounds such carotenoids, triterpenoids, and lignans and are high in essential nutrients like potassium and fiber that also contribute to their health benefits. Traditional dried fruit with their unique combination of bioactive compounds and essential nutrients are a convenient step toward healthier eating and a means to bridge the gap between recommended intake of fruits and actual consumption.
Chemical compositions and antioxidant activity of roasted Maegmundong (Liriope platyphylla tubers)
Authors: Lee Kyongae , Kim Boram , Choe Eunok
Published: June 2021

Proximate composition of roasted Maegmundongdong and the antioxidant activity of its water‐ and ethanol‐extracts were studied along with polyphenol contents determination and amino acid composition analysis. Contents of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, and ash of roasted Maegmundong were 80.0, 6.6, 0.5 and 2.6%, respectively. Three major amino acids of the water‐extract of roasted Maegmundongdong were proline(290.8mg%), alanine(194.3mg%) and arginine(172.0mg%), whereas those of ethanol‐extract were proline(424.0mg%), alanine(205.7mg%), and methionine(166.8mg%). The most abundant mineral in the water‐ and ethanol‐extracts was potassium at 2.14 and 4.09 cmole/kg, respectively. Electron donating abilities of water‐ and ethanol‐extracts were 85.5 and 94.7% of that of L‐ascorbic acid. Total antioxidant activity was also higher in the ethanol‐extract, which corresponded to 1.27 times of that of water‐extract. Higher electron donating ability and total antioxidant activity of ethanol‐extract than that of water‐extract were possibly related with amino acid composition as well as higher contents of polyphenols in ethanol‐extract(13.4mg/g) compared to that in water‐extract(5.2 mg/g).
Extractable and non‐extractable proanthocyanidins of Nonpareil, Carmel, and Butte California almonds
Authors: Bolling Bradley , Roto Anna , Kimball Kerilyn , Xie Liyang
Published: June 2021

Proanthocyanidin content may be underestimated due to the unextractable or “bound” fraction in polyphenol‐rich foods. We characterized the extractable and “bound” proanthocyanidins (PACs) in Nonpareil, Butte, and Carmel California almonds (n =3/genotype). Almonds were extracted and residues were further subjected to acid and base hydrolysis to yield additional PACs. PACs were quantified by normal phase HPLC as proanthocyanidin B2 equivalents. Base hydrolysis contributed 3 to 38% of total PAC content of almonds, mainly as monomers, dimers, and polymers. Acid hydrolysis did not yield additional PAC, but liberated an additional 60% polyphenols by the Folin method. The mean total PAC content of almond genotypes was 59 mg/100 g whole almonds. Nonpareil had the most total PACs, with 111 mg/100 g whole almonds. Butte almonds had the greatest relative proportion of monomers and dimers contributing ~50% to the PAC content. In contrast, trimers and greater oligomers contributed more than 70% of Nonpareil and Carmel PACs. Future analysis should consider the presence of “bound” polyphenols in almonds. Supported by the Almond Board of California.
Antioxidative Activity and Identification of Flavor Extract of Safflower Sprout Leafy Cultivated under Different‐colored Lights
Authors: Kang MyungHwa , Jang Hae Won , Kim Tae-Su , Chang Moon-Sik , Park Chun-Geon , Shibamoto Takayuki
Published: June 2021

As consumer's interests in seed sprouts are increasing all over the world, there is a need to investigate the potential sprout leafy production. Three varieties of white(WRM), blue(BRM), red(RRM) and control(CRM) light were studied in order to evaluate total phenolic acid content, antioxidant activity of DPPH radical scavenging, SOD‐liked activity and hydroxyl radical scavenging in safflower sprout leafy. Also, we were identified flavor by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) in the volatile dichloromethane extract obtained from safflower sprout leafy. The phenolic acid content of safflower sprout leafy extract was 0.38±0.01 mg/ml in WRM, 0.47±0.02 mg/ml in BRM, 0.37±0.02 mg/ml in RRM, 0.39±0.01 mg/ml in CRM. SOD‐liked activity was 51.92±2.72 % in WRM, 58.17±6.12 % in BRM, 64.58±2.95 % in RRM and 70.71±1.01 % in CRM. DPPH radical scavenging activity was 17.76 % in WRM, 20.09 % in BRM, 17.93 % in RRM and 21.46 % in CRM. Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was 30.06±0.13 % in WRM, 17.32±0.68 % in BRM, 15.54±0.14 % in RRM and 29.10±0.63 % in CRM. The main constituents of the volatile extract were nonanal, cis‐cyclohexen‐1‐one, 1‐pentadecene, heptasiloxane, butanoic acid, 1‐heptadecene, 1,13‐tetradecadiene, hexanoic acid, benzyl alcohol, 3‐buten‐2‐one, 2‐naphthalenemethanol and 2(4H)‐benzofuranone. Our results indicated that safflower sprout leafy under different‐colored lights was an effective process for enhancing the antioxidant activity as well as a flavoring agent in various food products.
EFFECT OF SOY NUTS ON INFLAMMATION, ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION, GLUCOSE, AND INSULIN IN ADULTS WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME
Authors: Reverri Elizabeth J. , LaSalle Colette D. , Kappagoda C. Tissa , Steinberg Francene M.
Published: June 2021

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), a clustering of risk factors for CVD and T2DM, has been increasing in prevalence. Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction represent early phases in the pathophysiology of these chronic diseases. A paucity of studies have examined soy consumption with MetS. This randomized controlled crossover trial investigated a commercially available soy snack (soy nuts) in menopausal women and older men with MetS. The hypothesis was that the soy snack would significantly attenuate inflammatory biomarkers, improve endothelial function, and achieve better glucose and insulin control. 9 adults with MetS were assigned in random order to the snack interventions for 4 weeks each: soy nuts and a macronutrient‐matched control (cookies baked in‐house). Outcome measurements included RH‐PAT, blood samples, anthropometrics, and food records. Preliminary baseline characteristics include 3M and 6F, 55.3±4.9 years, BMI 31.5±3.4 kg/m2, and 3.7±0.7 of 5 MetS criteria. Current results show no significant differences between snack interventions, time, and order. Equol status, NO, ET‐1, IL‐10, and food records will also be analyzed. Collectively, the enrollment goal is 18 and statistical analysis at that time will better reveal effects of soy nuts on inflammation, endothelial function, glucose, and insulin in adults with MetS.

Grant Funding Source : UC Davis Departmental Funds and Henry A. Jastro Research Award