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The levels of acrylamide (AA), four polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH4), and heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) in 184 air-fried agricultural, fishery, and animal products were measured using GC–MS and UPLC-MS/MS. Among the tested samples, sea algae exhibited the highest levels of PAH4 and eight specific HAAs (HAA8), while root and tuber crops had the greatest amount of AA. Agricultural and fisheries products had higher levels of all three contaminants, while livestock products had an inverse correlation between PAH4 and HAA8. The margin of exposure in the Korean population is considered "unlikely a concern" for all samples for PAH4 and HAA8, however, that for AA in cereal, vegetable, and root and tuber crops is deemed "may be a concern", with a value < 10,000 in all age groups. These findings suggest a need to evaluate dietary AA exposure in certain food categories and further research to minimize AA formation during air frying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated levels of eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH8) compounds in both raw and processed marine products in South Korea. Katsuobushi exhibited the highest concentration of benzo[a]pyrene, at 14.22 µg/kg, exceeding the European Commission's regulation level of 5.0 µg/kg. The total PAH8 concentration in katsuobushi was 220.5 µg/kg. Among the product categories, shellfish had the highest detection rate (70%), followed by fish (19%) and crustacea (8%), with chrysene being the most prominent PAH8 congener in all marine products. Grilled fish predominantly contained pyrogenic PAHs from combustion byproducts, while shellfish primarily contained petrogenic ones from the aquatic environment. Grilling, smoking, and drying processes significantly contributed to the formation of PAH8 in these food products. Based on the results of a risk assessment using a margin of exposure approach through a total diet study, exposure to PAH8 from marine products is considered to pose low concern to the South Korean population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to identify high‐risk factors and mitigation strategies for acrylamide formation in air‐fried lotus root chips by studying the impact of various cooking parameters, including temperature, time, presoaking, and pre‐seasoning treatments. The temperature and time had a surprisingly high impact on acrylamide formation. The chips prepared at high temperatures with longer cooking times contained an extremely high acrylamide content, reaching 12,786 ng/g (e.g., 170°C/19 min). A particularly concerning discovery was that the chips with extremely high acrylamide content (up to 17 times higher than the EU benchmark level for potato chips) did not appear overcooked or taste burnt. Higher cooking temperatures required shorter cooking times to properly cook lotus root chips for consumption. A high temperature with a short cooking time (170°C/13 min) greatly benefited acrylamide reduction compared to low temperature with a long cooking time (150°C/19 min). Presoaking in a 0.1% acetic acid solution and pre‐seasoning with 1% salt reduced acrylamide levels by 61% and 47%, respectively. However, presoaking in water, vinegar solution, and citric acid solution did not significantly decrease the acrylamide content in the chips. Furthermore, some seasonings significantly increased acrylamide levels (up to 7.4 times higher). For the first time, these findings underscore the high risks associated with air‐frying lotus root chips without considering these factors. This study also provides proper air‐frying parameters and pretreatment strategies for minimizing acrylamide formation in air‐fried lotus chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is an important grain as a major source of carbohydrates in Asia but contains more arsenic (As) than other grains. A total of 239 rice-based processed foods (rice, n = 30; rice cake, n = 30; porridge, n = 39; noodles, n = 33; bread, n = 20; snack, n = 59; powder, n = 28) were purchased in 2019 from domestic markets to measure total As (tAs) and As species. The average tAs and inorganic As (iAs) in each sample group ranged from 20 to 180 μg/kg (porridge for baby to noodle) and 4.4–85 μg/kg (porridge for baby to powder), respectively. The correlation between the iAs and tAs was affected by the variety of ingredients, such as the presence of seaweed (tAs) and the milling type of rice (iAs). Although rice cakes and baby rice-based powders are a source of concern for both adults and children, respectively, risk assessments indicate that most rice-based foods are generally safe to consume in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin that induces fibrosis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EMT) in kidneys and livers. It enters our bodies through food consumption, where it is absorbed in the intestines. However, the impact of OTA on the intestines is yet to be studied. MicroRNA (miRNAs) are small non-coding single-stranded RNAs that block the transcription of specific mRNAs and are, therefore, involved in many biochemical processes. Our findings indicate that OTA can induce EMT and intestinal fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro. This study examines the impact of OTA on intestinal toxicity and the role of miRNAs in this process. Following OTA treatment, miR-155-5p was the most elevated miRNA by next-generation sequencing. Our research showed that OTA increased miR-155-5p levels through transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), leading to the development of intestinal fibrosis and EMT. Additionally, the study identified that the modulation of TGF-β and miR-155-5p by OTA is linked to the inhibition of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ) and Smad2/3 accumulation in the progression of intestinal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A mechanical block in the elbow due to osteophytes in the olecranon fossa is a common clinical symptom for elbow stiffness. Purpose/hypothesis: This study aims to understand the biomechanical characteristics or changes in the stiff elbow in the resting (or neutral) and swing position of the arm using a cadaveric model. The hypotheses included the following: (1) a difference exists in the articular contact pressure of the elbow by comparing the non-stiff and stiff models in in vivo studies; (2) the degree of stiffness would affect the increase of the joint loading of the elbow. Study design: Controlled laboratory study, cadaveric study. Methods: Eight fresh-frozen specimens from individuals of both sexes were included in the biomechanical study. The specimen was mounted on a custom-designed jig system with gravity-assisted muscle contracture to mimic the elbow in a standing position. The elbow was tested in two conditions (the resting and passive swing). Contact pressure was recorded for three seconds in the resting position, which was the neutral position of the humerus. By dropping the forearm from 90° of the elbow flexion, the passive swing was performed. The specimens were tested sequentially in three stages of stiffness (stage 0, no stiffness; stage 1, 30° of extension limitation; and stage 2, 60° of extension limitation). After data collection was completed in stage 0, a stiff model was sequentially created for each stage. The stiff model of the elbow was created by blocking the olecranon by inserting a 2.0 K-wire into the olecranon fossa horizontally with the intercondylar axis. Results: The mean contact pressures were 279 ± 23, 302 ± 6, and 349 ± 23 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The increases in the mean contact pressure in stages 2 versus 0 were significant (P < 0.0001). The mean contact pressures were 297 ± 19, 310 ± 14, and 326 ± 13 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The peak contact pressures were 420 ± 54, 448 ± 84, and 500 ± 67 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The increases in mean contact pressure in stage 2 versus 0 were significant (P = 0.039). The increases in peak contact pressure in stages 0 versus 2 were significant (P = 0.007). Conclusions: The elbow bears the load created by gravity and muscle contracture in the resting and swing motion. Moreover, extension limitation of stiff elbow increases the load bearing in the resting position and swing motion. Careful surgical management should be considered for meticulous clearance of bony spur around olecranon fossa to resolve the extension limitation of the elbow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are proteins or lipids that have been glycated nonenzymatically by reducing sugars and their derivatives such as methylglyoxal. AGEs are known to cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and diseases in the human body. The toxic effects of AGEs and their structures on the origin of the protein being modified have not been well studied. Methods and results: Five different types of AGEs: AGE1 (glucose-derived), AGE2 (glyceraldehyde-derived), AGE3 (glycolaldehyde-derived), AGE4 (methylglyoxal-derived), and AGE5 (glyoxal-derived); were used to examine the effect of AGEs on HepG2 cells. AGE2 through 5 increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liver cells, an initiating factor for apoptosis. At the mRNA and protein levels, AGE5 treatment showed the greatest increase in expression of apoptosis-related factors such as Bax, p53, and Caspase 3. Quantitative analysis revealed that Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) and glyoxal-lysine dimer (GOLD) were the important types of AGE5. The ROS generation and the expression of apoptotic factors both increased when cells were treated with CML and GOLD. Conclusion: These findings suggest that AGE5 treatment activates the apoptosis-related gene expression in hapatocytes, with CML and GOLD as potential major AGE compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hazardous chemicals are commonly found in cereals and cereal-based products. However, most studies focus on the individual effects of these mycotoxins or metals, rather than their combined toxicity. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of cadmium (Cd) and ochratoxin A (OTA) on intestinal barrier integrity using Caco-2 cells and pig small intestinal epithelial (PSI) cells as models of intestinal epithelial cells and to measure alterations in cell survival and barrier integrity. The combined effects on cell viability were assessed in terms of a combination of index values. These findings showed that co-exposure to Cd + OTA had synergistic effects on Caco-2 and PSI cells at 25%, 50%, and 75% inhibitory concentrations (IC25, IC50, and IC75, respectively) against cell viability. Individual Cd and OTA treatments had no effect, but combined Cd + OTA exposure resulted in synergistic down-regulation of paracellular apical junction complex proteins, such as claudin-1, occludin, and E-cadherin. The current findings indicate that the combined effects of OTA + Cd may have consequences at the gut level, which should not be underestimated when considering their risk to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) constitute carcinogens. In this study, the risk of PAHs being consumed through meat and edible oils was assessed using a total diet study. Results were monitored by applying the toxic equivalency factor of benzo[a]pyrene; among each category, this factor was highest in grilled beef chitterlings (1.35 μg/kg), grilled Wiener sausages (1.20 μg/kg), fried chicken wings (0.70 μg/kg), and stir-fried perilla oil (1.29 μg/kg). The chronic daily intake was calculated, and risk characterization was estimated by applying the margin of exposure using the benchmark dose approach. Most samples analyzed in our study were denoted as having no concern; however, the intake group of stir-fried beef chitterlings, pan-fried pink sausage, deep-fried pork loin, and grilled duck was regarded as possible concern, and grilled chicken was assessed as having low concern. PAH changes must be monitored on a regular basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fucoidan from brown seaweeds has several biological effects, including preserving intestinal integrity. To investigate the intestinal protective properties of high molecular weight fucoidan (HMWF) from Undaria pinnatifida on intestinal integrity dysfunction caused by methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone-1 (MG-H1), one of the dietary advanced-glycation end products (dAGEs) in the human-colon carcinoma-cell line (Caco-2) cells and ICR mice. According to research, dAGEs may damage the intestinal barrier by increasing gut permeability. The findings of the study showed that HMWF + MG-H1 treatment reduced by 16.8% the amount of reactive oxygen species generated by MG-H1 treatment alone. Furthermore, HMWF + MGH-1 treatment reduced MG-H1-induced monolayer integrity disruption, as measured by alterations in transepithelial electrical resistance (135% vs. 75.5%) and fluorescein isothiocyanate incorporation (1.40 × 10−6 cm/s vs. 3.80 cm/s). HMWF treatment prevented the MG-H1-induced expression of tight junction markers, including zonula occludens-1, occludin, and claudin-1 in Caco-2 cells and mouse colon tissues at the mRNA and protein level. Also, in Caco-2 and MG-H1-treated mice, HMWF plays an important role in preventing receptor for AGEs (RAGE)-mediated intestinal damage. In addition, HMWF inhibited the nuclear factor kappa B activation and its target genes leading to intestinal inflammation. These findings suggest that HMWF with price competitiveness could play an important role in preventing AGEs-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin generated by Penicillium and Aspergillus species. It is often found in cereals. We hypothesized that OTA exposure induces epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), leading to liver fibrosis. In this research, we explored whether the TGF‐β receptor I (TGF‐β RI)/Smad2/3 signaling pathway is related to EMT‐induced hepatic fibrosis. In vitro and in vivo experiments, mRNA and protein expression of liver fibrosis‐related markers such as fibronectin, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and E‐cadherin were assessed. The levels of alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin, which are used to assess damage, increased. We also confirmed the increase in mRNA and protein expression of TGF‐β RI, Smad2, and Smad3. The expression of liver fibrosis‐related markers was decreased by siRNA‐mediated silencing of Smad2/3, as well as TGF‐RI suppression. Liver cells exposed to OTA showed enhanced TGF‐β RI expression on the cell membrane. These results demonstrated that OTA induces hepatic fibrosis through TGF‐β RI and Smad2/3 pathways in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Codonopsis lanceolata (CL) extract was shown to have antihypertensive effects in hypertensive rats. This randomized controlled trial was designed to investigate the ability of CL extract to prevent hypertension (HTN) in prehypertensive subjects. Eighty subjects aged 19-60 years with a systolic blood pressure (BP) of 120-139 mmHg and a diastolic BP of 80-89 mmHg were recruited over 3 months. Subjects were randomized 1:1 to a CL group and a placebo (PL) group and administered CL extract and starch, respectively, for 6 weeks. (BP) was measured and blood sampled at baseline and at the end of the trial. Relative to baseline, systolic BP was significantly decreased, and catalase activity was significantly increased following CL treatment in both the elevated systolic BP and stage 1 HTN subgroups. In the elevated systolic BP subgroup, serum nitrite concentration relative to baseline was significantly increased in CL compared to PL treated subjects (p = .038). In subjects with stage 1 HTN, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (p = .020) and malondialdehyde (p = .039) showed significantly greater reductions from baseline in the CL than in the PL group. In summary, CL was effective in preventing endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and lipid peroxidation in prehypertensive subjects, with these effects differing according to baseline systolic BP levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural products are consumed as major staple foods; these are the main factors responsible for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure to humans. We analyzed the concentrations of eight PAHs (PAH8) in commonly consumed 359 agricultural samples that are commonly consumed in Republic of Korea. These food samples were divided into four groups (fatty-solid, fatty-liquid, nonfatty-solid, and nonfatty-liquid) and eight different food categories (cereals, potatoes, pulse crops, seeds and nuts, vegetables, mushrooms, fruits, and regional tap water). The chronic daily intake and margin of exposure (MOE) were estimated based on daily consumption data and benzo[a]pyrene equivalents. In our total diet studies, the major contributor to the total PAH8 concentration (ΣPAH8) in agricultural samples was dried jujube (2.32 μg/kg), followed by griddled milk bread (1.25 μg/kg) and stir-fried black sesame (1.17 μg/kg). The integrated toxic equivalent concentrations based on BaP (ΣTEQbap; integrated toxic benzo[a]pyrene equivalent quantity) considering the relative toxicity, ranged from 0.12 and 1.6 μg/kg. The PAH8 risk assessment in agricultural products was expressed as the MOE value. The worst scenario (when Not Detected = Limit of Detection) showed the interpretation of the MOE result as a 'possible concern' to consume bread products (bread, rye bread, milk bread, and cornbread). The preceding experiments were carried out mainly on commercially processed foods and their raw foods. Unlike such routine testing, our total diet study-based monitoring is designed to monitor PAH8 levels in which agricultural products are analyzed after being processed as usual consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) continues to increase worldwide. Multiple factors, including diet, loss of the intestinal barrier function, and imbalance of the immune system can cause IBD. A balanced diet is important for maintaining a healthy bowel and preventing IBD from occurring. The effects of probiotic Lactobacillus gasseri‐fermented Maillard reaction products (MRPs) prepared by reacting whey protein with galactose on anti‐inflammation and intestinal homeostasis were investigated in this study, which compared MPRs and probiotics separately. RESULTS: In an animal colitis model induced by 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), FWG administration alleviated colon length loss and maintained intestinal immune system homeostasis as reflected by down‐regulated interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α output, and metallopeptidase‐9, and epithelial barrier balance as reflected by up‐regulated occludin, E‐cadherin, and zonula occludens‐1 production in the colon. Furthermore, the expression of splenic cytokines such as IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 was up‐regulated in the FWG‐treated mice in a comparable amount to the control group to ensure the balance of immune responses. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the use of FWG protects the intestines from colitis caused by DSS and maintains immune balance. FWG increased antioxidant enzyme activity, increased intestinal permeability, and regulated the balance of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines in the intestines and spleen. Continued intake of FWG can alleviate IBD symptoms through the preservation of mucosal immune responses, epithelial junction and homeostasis through the regulated splenic cytokines. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to compare the outcomes and complications of anatomical shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) for primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis with intact cuff tissue.Materials and Methods: The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for studies published before March 2, 2021 using the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they directly compared aTSA and rTSA for treating primary glenohumeral arthritis. A meta-analysis was performed using six studies that compared radiologic outcomes, functional scores, and range of motion (ROM). All the data were pooled using a random-effects model. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated as dichotomous data, while continuous data were analyzed using mean differences with 95% CIs.Results: Two independent researchers reviewed 1,061 studies. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. The range of motion, especially external rotation, was better for aTSA than for rTSA (MD = - 10.28, 95% CI: - 16.69 to - 3.88, P = 0.002). Functional scores showed no difference between aTSA and rTSA. Glenoid loosening (OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.06-0.50, P = 0.001) was more common with aTSA, and scapula notching (OR = 10.63, 95% CI: 1.73-65.27, P = 0.01) with rTSA. In the mid-term follow-up, the overall revision rate showed no difference between aTSA and rTSA, with a pooled OR of 0.33 (95% CI: 0.07-1.57, P = 0.16).Conclusion: A better ROM was achieved after aTSA than after rTSA. There was no difference in the revision rate at mid-term follow-up between aTSA and rTSA. Glenoid loosening was more common with aTSA, and scapula notching with rTSA.Level Of Evidence: Level IV, Meta-analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For treating displaced patella fractures, tension band wiring is the most widely used technique. However, implant removal surgery is often necessary to alleviate discomfort caused by fixation materials. On the contrary, fixation using nonabsorbable suture materials is anticipated to result in comparable outcomes without need for further implant removal surgery. However, there is a lack of clinical studies comparing the two fixation techniques (wire and nonabsorbable suture materials) for acute patella fractures. Methods: From 2014 to 2018, we retrospectively reviewed 60 patients who underwent open reduction with internal fixation for acute patella fracture. Thirty patients (group 1) who received surgery using tension band wiring and 30 patients (group 2) who received surgery using nonabsorbable suture materials were enrolled. The average follow-up period was more than 1 year after operation. Operation time, postoperative bone union time, range of motion (ROM) of the knee joint, postoperative clinical results, and complications were compared between the two groups. Result: Operation time, clinical bone union, and radiologic bone union were not statistically different between groups 1 and 2. At 3 months postoperatively, flexion was 120.3 ± 9.4° in group 1 and 110.5 ± 7.7° in group 2, showing statistically significant difference (p = 0.037). At 6 and 12 months postoperatively, the ROM was similar in both groups. Hospital for special surgery score at 3 months postoperatively was 78.4 ± 8.2 in group 1 and 83.7 ± 8.7 in group 2, showing statistically significant differences (p = 0.032). However, at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, there were no statistical differences. Lysholm score at 3 months postoperatively was 73.5 ± 8.1 in group 1 and 80.4 ± 8.2 in group 2, showing statistically significant difference (p = 0.016), but at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, there were no statistical differences. Conclusion: Fixation using multiple nonabsorbable suture materials can be an alternative surgical method in managing patella fractures, along with tension band wiring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in 115 dairy products and beverages, including alcoholic, grain, carbonated, and functional drinks; fruit and vegetable juices; coffee; and tea, purchased from 10 local city markets in South Korea. The sample groups were divided into non-fatty and fatty groups, pretreated with the ultrasound-assisted extraction method and saponification method, respectively. The limit of detection, limit of quantification, and accuracy were 0.038–0.185 μg/kg, 0.114–0.560 μg/kg, and 87.64–112.25%, respectively. The measurement uncertainty was ≤ 6.38% for eight PAHs (PAH8). PAH8 was detected in 41 of the 115 samples, ranging from 0.041 to 7.793 µg/kg. The risk assessment revealed that the margin of exposure for PAH8 ranged from 3.60 × 104 to 7.84 × 1011 in the mean intake groups and from 3.60 × 104 to 5.33 × 1011 in the P97.5 intake groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed from amino acids and reducing sugars through nonenzymatic Maillard reaction. AGEs are known to induce oxidative stress, which may cause fibrosis or cancer. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of caffeic acid (CA) on AGE‐mediated kidney epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human HK‐2 cells. Exposure to 100 µg/mL of AGEs by kidney epithelial cells raised the production of reactive oxygen species by 5.2‐fold and decreased levels of glutathione. In addition, cardamonin, a β‐catenin inhibitor, was used to determine the signaling pathway for β‐catenin in which cardamonin inhibited the AGEs‐induced translocation of β‐catenin into the nucleus, resulting in an inhibition of the EMT process. Similarly, our findings showed that, close to the control level, CA treatment decreased AGE‐mediated oxidative stress, loss of E‐cadherin expression, and overexpression of α‐smooth muscle actin and fibronectin by inactivation of the β‐catenin pathway. Furthermore, AGE treatment enhanced the expression of collagen type I (1.99‐fold) as well as the activity of metalloproteinases 2 (1.86‐fold) and 9 (2.79‐fold), but such increase was inhibited by the pretreatment of CA. In conclusion, this study determined the inhibitory effect of CA on AGE‐induced β‐catenin signaling, which prevented the occurrence of EMT in kidney epithelial cells. This suggests that CA may be a potential target for AGE‐induced renal fibrosis. Practical Application: Exposure of kidney epithelial cells to advanced glycation end products (AGEs) leads to a rise in reactive oxygen species and a decrease in glutathione, thereby increasing oxidative stress that may cause fibrosis. However, treatment of kidney cells with caffeic acid (CA) prior to their exposure to AGEs lowers oxidative stress and decreases fibrosis. This research reveals the beneficial influence of CA on renal fibrosis in laboratory‐cultured kidney cells (in vitro), which makes CA a potential therapeutic target for AGE‐induced fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a toxin produced by fungi such as Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. The key target organ of OTA toxicity is the kidney, and it is known that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) leading to fibrosis is enhanced after long-term exposure of the kidney to OTA. However, the mechanisms responsible for this onset are not precisely known. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of OTA-induced EMT and fibrosis in human proximal tubule HK-2 cells and mouse kidneys. Cells were treated for 48 h with various concentrations of OTA (50, 100, and 200 nM) and mice underwent oral administration of various doses of OTA (200 and 1000 μg/kg body weight) for 12 weeks. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels were increased in the serum of OTA-treated mice, and fibrosis was observed in kidney tissues. Furthermore, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin levels were increased, and E-cadherin level was decreased by OTA in both HK-2 cells and kidney tissues. In addition, the expression levels of TGF-β, smad2/3, and β-catenin were increased after OTA treatment. α-SMA, E-cadherin, and fibronectin were shown to be regulated by the activation of transcription factors, smad2/3 and β-catenin. These results demonstrated that OTA induces EMT and renal fibrosis through Smad2/3 and β-catenin signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black ginseng (BG), which is produced by repeated steaming and drying of fresh ginseng, has various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. This study investigated the anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of BG ethanolic extract in type 2 diabetic db/db mice. The levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin levels and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values were decreased in the groups fed BG extract (BG) (100 and 900 mg/kg BW/day), compared to the control group (CON). In the BG compared with the CON, hepatic steatosis in the liver and the size of adipocytes in muscle tissue were improved. The administration of BG regulated the glucose transporter type (GLUT) 4 and 2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α and γ in muscle and liver. Moreover, ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1), which profiled by HPLC, regulated the markers for lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism; PPARs and GLUTs in muscle and C2C12 rather than liver cells and tissue. These findings suggested that ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1) from BG extract can ameliorate type 2 diabetes through their anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whey, a by-product of cheese making, is a collection of several milk proteins and has functional and nutritional values. Whey protein concentrate (WPC) exhibits various functional effects by glycation. Studies to find sugar-binding sites in a protein having a functional effect are reported. However, it is rarely clear whether it confirms that glycated single protein exhibits the same effect of protein cluster. This study confirmed which protein sites are responsible for the effect of glycated WPC (G-WPC). β-Lactoglobulin (LG) was the major protein of G-WPC and glycated with lactose. The glycated LG increased the nitric oxide and cytokine secretion similar to G-WPC and peptide sequences of active compound was confirmed using the high molecular weight band of G-WPC. The K151 and K157 residues of LG were modified by glycation with sugar in common with G-WPC. These residues of glycated LG potentially contribute to the immune-modulation effect of G-WPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of reactive α-dicarbonyl leading to advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been linked to pathophysiological diseases in many studies, such as atherosclerosis, cataract, cancer, and diabetic nephropathy. Glycation-generated AGEs increase the expression of inflammatory cytokines by transferring signals to the cell by binding them to the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) on their cell surface. The effect of methylglyoxal-derived AGEs (AGE-4) on the induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in rat ordinary kidney cells (NRK-52E) was explored in this research, among other AGEs. The cell treated with 100 μg/mL AGE-4 for 24 h showed a substantial rise in MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression relative to BSA control only and other AGEs through ERK, JNK, and NF-B pathways. Our findings therefore suggest that AGE-4 expresses MMPs through the AGE-4-RAGE axis, activating MAPK signals that may contribute to dysfunction of the kidney cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of different silica-based layer coatings on shear bond strength (SBS) between Y-TZP and bovine dentin. Three different silica-based layer coatings were applied to the Y-TZP surface: tribochemical silica coating, vitrification (glaze coating), and composite resin sintering. A silane coupling agent (SIL) was applied to the silica-coated Y-TZP surface in the presence or absence of hydrofluoric acid (HF) treatment. A one-step adhesive was then applied to the silica-coated Y-TZP and cemented to bovine dentin using MDP-free resin cement. The SBS value of the tribochemical silica coating group was lowest among the experimental groups, while the HF+SIL subgroup showed the highest SBS value after vitrification (p<0.05). While hydrofluoric acid etching did not affect the SBS value of the tribochemical silica coating group, it affected the SBS value in the vitrification and composite resin sintering groups (p<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study investigated whether lancemaside A (LMA) can prevent hypertension and assessed the mechanisms of action of LMA in rats. Methods: Hypertension was induced by chronic immobilization stress and nicotine administration. Hypertensive vehicle rats were treated with LMA (1, 20, or 40 mg/kg) or nifedipine (10 mg/kg) as a positive control daily for 3 weeks. Key findings: In hypertensive vehicle rats, LMA dose‐dependently reduced systolic blood pressure. LMA doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg reduced the aortic expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX)2 (both P < 0.01), and 40 mg/kg LMA reduced serum malondialdehyde (P < 0.01). Serum nitrite levels were significantly higher in LMA treated rats than in hypertensive vehicle rats, with LMA doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg reducing the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in rat aortas (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). LMA also reduced the aortic levels of nuclear factor kappa B and the activation of the three isoforms of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). Conclusions: Lancemaside A prevents hypertension in rats by inhibiting the activation of MAPK signalling and the impairment in nitric oxide bioavailability due to NOX2‐mediated oxidative stress. Thus, LMA may act as a preventive agent for hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In food processing, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can be generated during heat treatment, and the PAHs in seasoned-roasted (SR) laver can be reduced by checking points during manufacturing. Benzo (a) anthracene, chrysene, benzo (b) fluoranthene, and benzo (a) pyrene have been identified in SR laver via GC/MS. We confirmed that in practice, the PAHs in SR laver form from the mixed oil (57%) and roasting process (43%). To mitigate the formation of PAHs, we used a model system to change the mixing ratio of oil, roasting temperature, and time. A significant reduction (35%) was observed in the PAH level as the perilla oil was removed from the mixed oil composition and roasting continued at 350 °C for 10 s. These results show that the composition of the mixing oil and the parameters of the heat treatment are crucial factors that contribute to the formation of PAHs in roasted laver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heat-based spray drying process generating the highest level of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in the infant formula processing was set as a control point from which the levels of AGE markers, N-carboxymethyllysine, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and fluorescence intensity, can be mitigated. We optimized the parameters, including inlet temperature, feeding rate, and aspirator rate during spray drying, and alternatively optimized food additives, including pyridoxine hydrochloride, dl-α-tocopheryl acetate, and l-carnitine. Using response surface methodology, the optimal condition based on our experimental condition for the inlet temperature, pump rate, and aspirator rate were 148.7 °C, 342.4 mL/h and 28.6 m3/h, respectively, and the optimal conditions of pyridoxine hydrochloride, dl-α-tocopheryl acetate and l-carnitine were 0.99 mg/100 g dry mass (DM), 8 mg/100 g DM and 20.4 mg/100 g DM, respectively. These results suggest that AGEs can be mitigated by controlling the parameters and optimizing the addition of food additives during the spray-drying process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although chebulic acid isolated from Terminalia chebular has diverse biological effects, its effects on the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the expression of downstream genes have not been elucidated. The purpose of this research is to investigate the hepatoprotective mechanism of chebulic acid against oxidative stress produced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) in liver cells. The treatment with chebulic acid attenuated cell death in t-BHP-induced HepG2 liver cells and increased intracellular glutathione content, upregulated the activity of heme oxygenase-1, and also increased the translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus and Nrf2 target gene expression in a dose-dependent manner. The exposure of chebulic acid activated the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases. The overall result is that chebulic acid has cytoprotective effect on t-BHP-induced hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells through Nrf2-mediated antioxidant enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biologic augmentation for rotator cuff repair is a challenging treatment in patients with chronic large, massive, and irreparable rotator cuff injuries. Particularly, the use of an extracellular matrix (ECM) patch such as dermal tissue offered improved biomechanical properties in previous studies. Cytokines induce cell chemotaxis, proliferation, matrix synthesis, and cell differentiation. Moreover, osteoinductive growth factors such as bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) affect the formation of new bone and fibrocartilage in lesions. However, the effects of using a dermal patch in combination with BMP-2 have not been evaluated to date, although many researchers have recognized the importance thereof. In this study, rhBMP-2-coated dermal patch (1 cm × 2 cm) isolated from human cadaveric donor was inserted in a rabbit model of chronic rotator cuff injury for in vivo evaluation. Bone mineral density and biomechanical strength were tested and histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed. The results showed that insertion of an rhBMP-2-coated acellular dermal patch not only significantly ameliorated new bone formation, it also improved biomechanical properties such as ultimate tensile strength. Thus, the use of this combination may improve the chronic rotator cuff injury-healing rate and clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1840-1846, 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improved eating quality is a major breeding target in japonica rice due to market demand. Consequently, quantitative trait loci (QTL) for glossiness of cooked rice and amylose content associated with eating quality have received much research focus because of their importance in rice quality. Results: In this study, QTL associated with 12 grain quality traits were identified using 96 introgression lines (IL) of rice developed from an interspecific cross between the Korean elite O. sativa japonica cultivar 'Hwaseong' and O. rufipogon over 7 years. QTL analyses indicated that QTL qDTH6 for heading date, detected on chromosome 6 is associated with variance in grain traits. Most QTLs detected in this study clustered near the qDTH6 locus on chromosome 6, suggesting the effect of qDTH6. O. rufipogon alleles negatively affected grain quality traits except for a few QTLs, including qGCR9 for glossiness of cooked rice on chromosome 9. To characterize the effect of the O. rufipogon locus harboring qGCR9, four lines with a single but different O. rufipogon segment near qGCR9 were compared to Hwaseong. Three lines ( O. rufipopgon ILs) having O. rufipogon segment between RM242 and RM245 in common showed higher glossiness of cooked rice than Hwaseong and the other line (Hwaseong IL), indicating that qGCR9 is located in the 3.4-Mb region between RM242 and RM245. Higher glossiness of cooked rice conferred by the O. rufipogon allele might be associated with protein content considering that three lines had lower protein content than Hwaseong ( P < 0.1). These three O. rufipogon ILs showed higher yield than Hwaseong and Hwaseong IL due to increase in spikelets per panicle and grain weight indicating the linkage of qGCR9 and yield component QTLs. Conclusion: The qGCR9 locus is of particular interest because of its independence from other undesirable grain quality traits in O. rufipogon. SSR markers linked to qGCR9 can be used to develop high-quality japonica lines and offer a starting point for map-based cloning of genes underlying this trait. To our knowledge, this is the first report to map a beneficial QTL for glossiness of cooked rice from a wild rice, O. rufipogon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoaging and glycation stress are major causes of skin deterioration. Oxidative stress caused by ultraviolet B ( UVB) irradiation can upregulate matrix metalloprotease 1 ( MMP-1), a major enzyme responsible for collagen damage in the skin. Advanced glycation end products ( AGEs) accumulate via gradual formation from skin proteins, especially from long-lived proteins such as dermal elastin and collagen. Plantamajoside ( PM), isolated from Plantago asiatica, has various biological effects including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In this study, we assessed the protective effects of PM on a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) and primary human dermal fibroblasts ( HDF) against stress caused by glyceraldehyde-induced AGEs (glycer- AGEs) with UVB irradiation. We found that PM attenuated UVB- and-glycer- AGEs-induced MMP-1 expression in HaCaT and HDF cells and proinflammatory cytokines expression by inhibiting the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases ( MAPKs) activated by reactive oxygen species. Specific inhibitors of NF- κB and MAPKs attenuated the induced expression of MMP-1. PM also inhibited the phosphorylation of I κB α, and reduced nuclear translocation of NF- κB in these cells. Furthermore, PM attenuated the upregulation of receptor for AGEs ( RAGE) by glycer- AGEs with UVB irradiation. Therefore, our findings strongly suggest that PM is a promising inhibitor of skin photoaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the cooperative effect of selected Lactobacillus gasseri strains and Cudrania tricuspidata (CT) leaf extract in enhancing the health-promoting activities of fermented milk. Addition of CT increased total bacterial counts and proteolysis during fermentation of milk with L. gasseri strains. Antioxidant capacities were determined by measuring the ABTS, DPPH, and peroxyl radical scavenging activities and ferric reducing power. The antioxidant capacity of CT-supplemented milk was greater than that of milk without supplementation; moreover, the antioxidant activity of CT-supplemented milk was synergistically improved by fermentation with L. gasseri strains. In particular, CT-supplemented milk fermented by L. gasseri 505 showed the highest antioxidant activity. The phenolic compounds in CT, such as neo-chlorogenic, chlorogenic, and caffeic acid, were metabolized during fermentation with L. gasseri strains, and 3,4-dihydroxy-hydrocinnamic acid was produced as a fermentation metabolite. Moreover, the liberation of bioactive peptides of fermented milk was increased by the proteolytic activity of L. gasseri strains. In particular, six peptides, which were mainly derived from β-casein, were newly identified in this study. These findings suggest that L. gasseri strains metabolize the phenolic acids in the CT and the bioactive peptides released through this interaction improve the antioxidant activity of the fermented milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously our research found that caffeic acid (CA) has antioxidant activity in vitro and in vivo. However, the antioxidant mechanism of CA has not been clearly demonstrated. We investigated the protective mechanism of CA on oxidative stress in HepG2 cells and primary hepatocytes. We focused on the effects of CA on glutathione (GSH) synthesis and its mechanisms. Reporter gene assay, transient transfection, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot were performed to confirm the mechanisms of antioxidant capacity. CA increased GSH level and γ-glutamylcysteine ligase (γ-GCL) activity. γ-Glutamylcysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased following treatment with CA, whereas no changes were observed in the γ-GCL modifier subunit levels in HepG2 and rat hepatocytes. CA phosphorylated JNK, and activated the AP-1 transcription factor. These results show that the intracellular GSH levels and GCLC increased through the JNK/AP-1 pathways by CA treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are involved in the development of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) dysfunction and the progression of atherosclerosis. However, AGEs may indirectly affect VSMCs via AGEs-induced signal transduction between monocytes and human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs), rather than having a direct influence. This study was designed to elucidate the signaling pathway underlying AGEs-RAGE axis influence on VSMC dysfunction using a co-culture system with monocytes, HUVECs and VSMCs. AGEs stimulated production of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β via extracellular-signal-regulated kinases phosphorylation and nuclear factor-κB activation in HUVECs. It was observed that AGEs-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines increase VSMC proliferation, inflammation and vascular remodeling in the co-culture system. This result implies that RAGE plays a role in AGEs-induced VSMC dysfunction. We suggest that the regulation of signal transduction via the AGEs-RAGE axis in the endothelium can be a therapeutic target for preventing atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytical method for the simultaneous determination of 16 types of structural amino acids in infant formula using an automated amino acid analyzer was validated through tests of precision, accuracy and linearity. The automated analysis of the amino acids was performed on an ion-exchange packed column with a visible detector. The certificated reference material (CRM) 1546 from NIST was used as the test sample to determine the precision and accuracy of the analytical method. The regression analyses revealed good correlations [correlation coefficient ( r)] that were greater than 0.99. The recovery values of the amino acids were ranged from 87.18 to 118.08%. The limits of detection and limits of quantification were less than 0.059 mg/100 g and less than 0.198 mg/100 g, respectively. The intra- and inter-day precisions were less than 14.62% in the CRM sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethyl acetate layer of methanol extract (TCE) of yellow myrobalan ( Terminalia chebula) contains 2.4% of chebulic acid, a standard compound in TCE, which have a strong anti-oxidative effect and was reported in our previous study. Thirty-one male SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (normal control, CCl control, TCE control, CCl+high dose TCE, and low dose TCE). Liver fibrosis was induced by i.p. injection of CCl and TCE were orally administrated. TCE decreased the up-regulated malondealdehyde value and increased the down-regulated ratio of GSH/GSSG content and activities of GRd, GPx, and GST compared to the CCl control group. Decreased dysfunction and inflammatory reaction in liver was confirmed by alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, relative liver weight and infiltration of neutrophils. Also, TCE inhibited phenotype change of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) by reducing α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) gene expression and protein production. Inhibition of collagen 1A1 gene expression and protein production were also confirmed. From these results, TCE may be a useful material for preventing liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study on the five-alpha reductase inhibitory effect and astringent activity of green apple rind (GAR) extracts on human keratinocytes and fibroblast cells. It states in the study 70 percent of the ethanol GAR extract showed highest antioxidant activity and tannin content. It mentions that the ethyl acetate fraction of the GAR extracts showed astringent activity, exhibited inhibitory effects on five-alpha reductase and induced collagen synthesis.

The fruit of Terminalia chebula Retz. ( T. chebula), which is a member of the Combfreetaceae family, is used widely in Asian countries as a traditional folk medicine, and its extract has been reported to be an anticancer, antidiabetic and anticaries agent. In our previous study, chebulic acid isolated from T. chebula extract was confirmed to show antioxidant activity and protective action against endothelial cell dysfunction. In order to support the safety-in-use of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc)-soluble portion of a T. chebula ethanol extract containing 29.4% chebulic acid content, the prepared portion was tested in an in vitro mutagenicity assay, and a single- and 14-day repeated dose oral toxicity study. In the bacterial mutation assay, up to 5000 µg/mL concentration of the EtOAc-soluble portion, the numbers of colonies did not increase whether with or without metabolic activation. In the oral toxicity study, the single oral dose of the extract at 2000 mg/kg did not produce mortality or abnormal lesions in the internal organs of rats. The results of a 14-day orally repeated dose showed that the EtOAc-soluble portion of T. chebula ethanol extracts gave no adverse effects at dosages of 2000 mg/kg in rats in the study. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]