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Summary: This study investigated the effect of fermentation by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 75 (L75) on the physicochemical properties, survival of L75, sensory, antioxidants and their activities in leaf smoothies of six sweet potato cultivars [Orange‐fleshed (OFSP): 'Bophelo', and 'Beauregard'; cream‐fleshed (CFSP): 'Blesbok' and 'Ndou'; and purple‐fleshed (PFSP): '08.21p' and 'Purple‐purple']. Fermentation significantly affected the physiochemical properties. Fermentation for 24 h improved the carotenoid (TCC), ascorbic acid (AA) (6.8, 6.0 mg 100 g−1) and total phenolic (4435 mg 100 g−1) significantly in, 'Bophelo' smoothies. Whilst 48 h fermentation significantly increased the TCC, AA, organic acids, valine and alanine levels in 'Blesbok' smoothies'. Principal component analysis separated the unfermented 'Bophelo' and Purple‐purple' leaf smoothies from fermented leaf smoothies of OFSP, CSFP, and PFSP. DPPH scavenging activity and alpha‐carotene were effective markers for separating fermented from unfermented leaf smoothies in the variable importance study. Survival of L75 was influenced by fermentation duration and cultivar type. Fermented and unfermented smoothies were equally acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four in vitro oxidative‐stress models were used to study the antioxidant/antipollution effects of all‐trans‐astaxanthin and crocin compared to synthetic antioxidants. DPPH‐scavenging activity of astaxanthin (5 μM) was 2.4, 1.3, 1.4, 1.1 and 0.9‐fold higher than that of alpha‐tocopherol (AT), butylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, gallic acid and Trolox, respectively. Crocin scavenged the same radicals amount as butylhydroxytoluene and butylhydroxyanisole. Both carotenoids were more effective at reducing ferric ions than synthetic antioxidants and had a protective effect on the viability of stressed epidermal cells. Reactive oxygen species induced by hydrogen peroxide or cigarette smoke on a skin were quenched with astaxanthin and crocin to approximately the same extent as with AT. ASX was 3.8, 2.3 and 14‐fold better singlet oxygen scavenger than Trolox, AT and gallic acid, respectively. The polyunsaturated fatty acids in the astaxanthin' emulsion were 6.5 and 2.5‐fold more resistant to oxidation than in the control emulsion and the AT' emulsion, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Diabetic population have a twofold to threefold increased risk of developing liver cancer, and hyperglycaemia is a prime causative factor that propends the tumour cells to undergo aggressive metabolic growth. In this study, we aimed to examine the molecular mechanism by which lutein inhibits hyperglycaemia‐induced human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cell proliferation. Methods: The effect of lutein on high glucose‐induced proliferation was measured using the WST‐1 reagent. Its effect on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels was measured by DCF assay. The effect on the expression of antioxidant enzymes, cell cycle regulatory proteins and intracellular protein kinases was analysed by western blotting. The modulatory effect of lutein on different phases of the cell cycle was analysed by flow cytometry. Results: The data showed that lutein at 5 µM concentration significantly blocked glucose‐promoted HepG2 cell proliferation. Suppression of high glucose‐induced cell proliferation by lutein was not associated with apoptosis induction, but it was linked with inhibition of hyperglycaemia‐mediated elevated ROS and upregulated expression of high glucose‐mediated repressed heme oxygenase 1 (HO1). Furthermore, G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and associated phosphorylation of Cdk1 and P53 were found to be linked with suppressed hyperglycaemia‐mediated cell proliferation by lutein. In addition, lutein inhibited hyperglycaemia‐induced activation of P38 which relates to high glucose‐induced ROS‐mediated growth suppression and modulated the phosphorylation of Erk, JNK and Akt in hyperglycaemic HepG2 cells. Conclusion: Our findings portray that sufficient intake of lutein may offer a negative impact on diabetes‐associated tumour growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study delineates the effects of incorporation of 1% diallyl sulfide (DAS) into extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on the physico‐chemical characteristics, in vitro antioxidant, and in vivo hepatoprotective properties in CCl4‐induced acute liver injury in mice. Results showed that the DAS‐rich EVOO exhibited good oxidative stability over one‐month storage and preserved its original quality‐related parameters including major components (oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid), and minor components (tocopherols, chlorophylls and carotenoids, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, elenolic acid, oleuropein and its aglycone, pinoresinol, vanilic acid, cinnamic acid, ferulic acid, luteolin, apigenin, and sterols). Compared with EVOO or DAS, the DAS‐rich EVOO displayed the highest DPPH and ABTS‐radical scavenging activities and showed the strongest cellular antioxidant activity (CAA). In connection with its free radical scavenging activity and CAA, DAS‐rich EVOO significantly normalized the serum ALT and AST levels and prevented the increase in interleukin‐6 in CCl4‐intoxicated mice. The manifest anti‐inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of DAS‐rich EVOO were further supported by liver histopathological examinations. Overall, the EVOO enrichment with DAS could open up opportunities for the development of novel functional food with improved antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Carotenoids, a class of phytonutrients, have been well established to boost skin's innate resistance against ultraviolet (UV) B‐induced erythema (sunburn). Many of the published clinical studies thus far have focused on the measurement of erythema as the primary clinical indicator of skin protection against UVB radiation. More recent studies have shown that carotenoid supplementation provides even more skin protection than previously shown as new clinical and molecular endpoints beyond UVB‐induced erythema have been reported. These recent studies have demonstrated that carotenoids also provide photoprotection against UVA‐induced pigmentation and inhibit molecular markers of oxidative stress such as intercellular adhesion molecule 1, heme oxygenase‐1, and matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 9. This article provides a comprehensive review of the published clinical evidence on skin benefits of carotenoids in the last five decades and indicates new perspectives on the role of ingestible carotenoids in skin protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: An orange‐coloured carrot pectin‐enriched fraction (CPEF), with 50% uronic acids (42%‐methylated), carrying lipophilic carotenoids and α‐tocopherol, developed homogeneous calcium‐crosslinked films at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% CPEF proportions regarding a commercial pectin. CPEF gave higher relative elongation at break (65% for 50% CPEF film) when compared to 0% CPEF film (26% elongation). FTIR spectra showed a decreased intensity in the C = O group of the esterified carboxylate band as the CPEF content increased. CPEF maintained the orange colour (a* ≈ +37) and partly the carotenes (k ≈ 8.62 × 10−3 d−1) in films, even under 25 °C light storage. Also, CPEF gave water resistance to dissolution (100% CPEF film: 50% solubility), maintaining film integrity after 24 h soaking. Surface wettability decreased (40° contact angle) when CPEF proportion increased. These characteristics made the 100% CPEF film an efficient antioxidant interface that preserved a vegan cashew ripened cheese of high water activity (0.952) for 60 days at 7 °C, as determined through the assay of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is the most devastating stress for crops. Intensity and duration of drought determine the magnitude of plant damage; similarly, plant ability to counteract drought determines its tolerance capacity. Recent studies revealed that exogenous apocarotenoid treatment confers abiotic stress tolerance to plants. However, much less is known about the role of β‐cyclocitral (βCC), the major apocarotenoid, in drought tolerance. Here, we demonstrate βCC's role in improving plants' tolerance against drought stress.Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants were independently treated with water and βCC and grown under either water‐limited or irrigated conditions. The βCC‐treated drought‐exposed (BD) and βCC‐treated irrigated (BH) plants were analysed for the major drought tolerance associated traits; water‐treated drought‐exposed (CD) and water‐treated irrigated plants (CH) were used as controls.On exposure to drought, unlike controls, βCC‐treated plants showed no wilting, higher RWC and stomatal conductance, unchanged ABA levels and stomatal closure. The BD plants had increased photosynthesis, chlorophyll content and enhanced root, but not shoot, growth. In addition, βCC treatment enhanced proline accumulation and activity of SOD in both drought‐exposed and well irrigated plants.Taken together, βCC was identified as a potential candidate that improves tomato osmolyte accumulation and superoxide elimination, independent of ABA, and prepares the plant for upcoming drought stress. Our results suggest that βCC can be used to prime crops against drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Photoreceptor engineering has recently emerged as a means for improving agronomically beneficial traits in crop species. Despite the central role played by the red/far‐red photoreceptor phytochromes (PHYs) in controlling fruit physiology, the applicability of PHY engineering for increasing fleshy fruit nutritional content remains poorly exploited. In this study, we demonstrated that the fruit‐specific overexpression of a constitutively active GAF domain Tyr252‐to‐His PHYB2 mutant version (PHYB2Y252H) significantly enhances the accumulation of multiple health‐promoting antioxidants in tomato fruits, without negative collateral consequences on vegetative development. Compared with the native PHYB2 overexpression, PHYB2Y252H‐overexpressing lines exhibited more extensive increments in transcript abundance of genes associated with fruit plastid development, chlorophyll biosynthesis and metabolic pathways responsible for the accumulation of antioxidant compounds. Accordingly, PHYB2Y252H‐overexpressing fruits developed more chloroplasts containing voluminous grana at the green stage and overaccumulated carotenoids, tocopherols, flavonoids and ascorbate in ripe fruits compared with both wild‐type and PHYB2‐overexpressing lines. The impacts of PHYB2 or PHYB2Y252H overexpression on fruit primary metabolism were limited to a slight promotion in lipid biosynthesis and reduction in sugar accumulation. Altogether, these findings indicate that mutation‐based adjustments in PHY properties represent a valuable photobiotechnological tool for tomato biofortification, highlighting the potential of photoreceptor engineering for improving quality traits in fleshy fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthetic method of tetraphenyl‐substituted all‐E‐carotenes 1 with improved properties of antioxidant and molecular electronic conductance was developed through the formation of tetraphenyl‐substituted all‐E‐apocarotenedial 4. The synthesis highlighted the preparation of novel subunits containing phenyl substituent(s) with E‐configuration starting from the key (E)‐4‐chloro‐2‐phenylbut‐2‐enal (10), utilizing conjugation effect with formyl group or easy recrystallization of sulfone compounds. Sulfone‐mediated coupling methods of Julia and modified Julia–Kocienski olefinations utilizing the subunits were demonstrated to produce tetraphenyl‐substituted apocarotenedials 4. The major all‐E‐forms (73–85 % selectivity) were easily purified by SiO2 chromatography and trituration with Et2O due to the presence of the polar formyl groups. The olefination of all‐E‐apocarotenedials 4 and Wittig salt 5 provided all‐E‐9,9',13,13'‐tetraphenylcarotenes 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Chemical composition, polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids and antioxidant activities of twenty‐five cultivars of sweet potato were investigated. Starch, crude protein, crude fat, total dietary fibre, reducing sugar and ash contents ranged between 51.88–69.21, 2.36–7.79, 0.24–1.11, 5.02–14.35, 1.07–9.78 and 1.95–4.29 g per 100 g dry weight (DW), respectively. Cultivars of Longshu, Pushu 32 and Qinshu No.7 (Shanxi province) displayed the highest values in total polyphenol contents (9.38, 9.11 and 8.76 mg GAE per g DW, respectively), Huangmeigui showed higher flavonoids content (2.54 mg RE per g DW), Xiangshu presented higher anthocyanin content (1.02 mg per g DW), whereas Pushu 32 had the highest β‐carotene content (208.11 μg per g DW). Strong significant positive correlations were presented between antioxidant activities and total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, indicating that polyphenols and flavonoids are essential antioxidants in sweet potatoes. Among all cultivars, Pushu 32 presented the highest grey relational grade (GRG) value (0.7811), suggesting its importance as a healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human stratum corneum (SC) contains an abundant amount of carotenoid antioxidants, quenching free radicals and thereby protecting the skin. For the precise measurements of the depth‐dependent carotenoid concentration, confocal Raman microscopy is a suitable method. The quantitative concentration can be determined by the carotenoid‐related peak intensity of a Gaussian function approached at ≈1524 cm−1 using non‐linear regression. Results show that the carotenoid concentration is higher at the superficial layers of the SC then decreases to a minimum at 20% SC depth and increases again towards the bottom of the SC. In the present work, two carotenoid penetration pathways into the SC are postulated. The first pathway is from the stratum granulosum to the bottom of the SC, while in the second pathway, the carotenoids are delivered to the skin surface by sweat and/or sebum secretion and penetrate from outside. The carotenoids are aggregated at the superficial layers, which are shown by high correlation between the aggregation states of carotenoids and the lateral organization of lipids. At the 30%‐40% SC depths, the ordered and dense lipid molecules intensify the lipid‐carotenoid interactions and weaken the carotenoid‐carotenoid interaction and thus exhibit the disaggregation of carotenoids. At 90%‐100% SC depths, the carotenoid‐lipid interaction is weakened and the carotenoids have a tendency to be aggregated. Thus, the molecular structural correlation of carotenoid and SC lipid might be reserved in the intercellular space of the SC and also serves as the skeleton of the intercellular lipids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The consumption of native tropical fruits represents an important source of bioactive food and vitamins for consumers. The aim of this study was to determine the composition of vitamins, bioactive compounds and the antioxidant activity of seven native fruits of the Myrtaceae family from south Brazil. RESULTS: Sample 1 of Eugenia pyriformis presented the highest value of β‐carotene (0.1021 g kg−1), lutein (0.0511 g kg−1), zeaxanthin (0.0370 g kg−1), and α‐carotene (0.0112 g kg−1), of all analyzed samples. The three samples of Eugenia uniflora L presented the highest lycopene (0.1876, 0.1240 and 0.1615 g kg−1) and vitamin A content (0.106, 0.035 and 0.178 g kg−1 RAE) of all seven species analyzed. The cyanidin 3‐glucoside was the most common anthocyanin found in fruits in the present study. Two samples of Plinia peruviana presented higher antioxidant capacity by the ABTS radical method (0.80 and 0.67 mol TEs kg−1) among the fruits analyzed. The samples of Campomanesia xanthocarpa analyzed stood out owing to the high content of vitamin C present (23.89, 36.83 and 35.05 g kg−1). The values of pantothenic acid in Plinia peruviana account for 20% of daily requirements. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the native fruits studied can provide an appreciable amount of vitamins and bioactive compounds. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND During the last few decades, greenhouse technology for horticultural crops has focused on retaining optimum conditions within the greenhouse environment that could allow for a compromise between maximum yields and minimum production costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of three greenhouse covering materials and five harvesting dates on the yield and quality parameters of hydroponically produced tomato fruit, as well as on energy consumption. RESULTS: Plants had a higher growth rate at early stages for S‐PE cover material, while differences were minimized at later stages. Tocopherol content was the highest for ID‐PE material and harvesting later than 170 days after transplanting (DAT), while sugar content (fructose and glucose) was the highest for S‐PE material and 157 DAT. Organic acid content was the highest at early harvestings, especially for 7‐PE and S‐PE cover materials, while it exhibited decreasing trends at later harvesting dates. Antioxidant properties showed a varied response to cover materials and harvesting dates, while β‐carotene, carotenoids and chlorophylls were the highest for 7‐PE material. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that both cover materials and harvesting date may affect significantly tomato fruit quality, especially sugar and organic acid contents which are associated with fruit taste, as well as tocopherols which contribute to antioxidant properties and pigments that are associated with fruit ripening and earliness of marketable maturity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Plums are much appreciated by consumers as fresh fruit but have a limited storage life. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with fruit ripening, an increase in ROS scavenging antioxidant systems could lead to a delay in postharvest plum ripening and in maintaining fruit quality after long cold storage. RESULTS: Results showed that crop yield (kg per tree) and fruit weight were enhanced by preharvest oxalic acid (OA) treatment of plum cultivars ('Black Splendor' and 'Royal Rosa'), although the on‐tree ripening process was delayed. In addition, the ripening process during cold storage was delayed in plums from OA‐treated tress, manifested by lower firmness and acidity losses and reduced ethylene production, as compared with fruits from control trees. Antioxidant compounds (phenolics, anthocyanins and carotenoids) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were higher in plums from OA‐treated trees than in controls, at harvest and during 50 days of cold storage. CONCLUSION: OA preharvest treatment could be a useful tool to maintain plum quality properties during long‐term storage, by delaying the postharvest ripening process through a delay in ethylene production, with an additional effect on increasing bioactive compounds with health beneficial effects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focus of this research was electrochemical study of β‐carotene, astaxanthin and lutein in aqueous media. Compounds were investigated on paraffin impregnated graphite electrode (PIGE) in 0.1 M HClO4 aqueous electrolyte using square‐wave voltammetry (SWV) with pulse amplitude of 50 mV and step potential of 2 mV. Voltammetry of immobilized microparticles (VIM) allowed determination of β‐carotene and astaxanthin as solids immersed in aqueous electrolyte. Results obtained with SWV revealed oxidation peaks at 0.88 V and 1.09 V versus Ag/AgCl for β‐carotene and astaxanthin, respectively. To obtain additional information about their behaviour, stripping voltammetry microprobe (SPV) was employed. With this technique the responses of astaxanthin, β‐carotene and lutein exhibit three peaks (−0.345 V, 0.47 V and 0.65 V), two peaks (0.477 V and 0.725 V) and a single peak at 0.687 V, respectively. Based on these results, antioxidant activity of these carotenoids is in order: astaxanthin > β‐carotene > lutein. Good dose‐response relationship between carotenoid concentrations precipitated on PIGE and net peak current was obtained, but in rather narrow concentration range for each compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People are exposed to a number of environmental, occupational, and therapeutic toxic agents which may be natural or man made. These hazardous substances may manifest as direct side effects on the function of organs or indirectly induced alteration of gene expression, cancer‐associated metabolic pathways, and/or alter homeostasis. Lycopene, as a one of the most potent antioxidant, is found in fruits and vegetables. High‐intake of lycopene has been shown to be effective in decreasing the risk of both natural toxins including mycotoxins, bacterial toxins, and chemical toxins including heavy metals, pesticides as well as herbicides. Recently, there is growing attention in understanding the mechanisms of the phytochemicals and carotenoids as antioxidative, antiapoptotic, radical scavenging, and chelating agents and their roles in the modulation of inflammatory pathways. This review summarizes available data from several recent studies about lycopene and its role against chemical and natural toxicants. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(1):5–23, 2019 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids are potent dietary antioxidants that have been shown to attenuate ethanol‐induced harm in animal models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. A diet low in antioxidant‐rich foods may induce a state of oxidative stress in the context of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, potentially causing growth restriction in the developing fetus. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of a longitudinal U.K. birth cohort. The sample comprised 9,699 women and their babies in Avon, U.K., with an estimated delivery date between April 1, 1991 and December 31, 1992. Alcohol consumption data were self‐reported at 18 weeks' gestation via a postal questionnaire. Women reported any binge drinking (≥4 U.K. units/occasion) during the past month. Dietary data were self‐reported at 32 weeks' gestation using a food frequency questionnaire. Estimated intakes of vitamins C and E and carotenoids were categorized into quartiles. Logistic regression models with interaction terms were used to investigate relationships between maternal binge drinking, dietary antioxidants, and fetal growth. Models were adjusted for maternal sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. Small for gestational age (SGA; <10th percentile) was defined using customized birth centiles. Results: In the unadjusted models, binge drinking was associated with higher risk of SGA birth (odds ratio [OR] 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10, 1.72, p = 0.005), and higher maternal intakes of vitamin C (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.84, 0.96, p = 0.002) and vitamin E (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.84, 0.95, p < 0.0001) were associated with lower risk of SGA birth. However, addition of potentially confounding variables attenuated these relationships. Likelihood ratio tests indicated that interaction terms were not significant for vitamin C (p = 0.116), vitamin E (p = 0.059), or carotenoid intakes (p = 0.174). Conclusions: There was no evidence of maternal intake of dietary antioxidants modifying the relationship between maternal binge drinking and SGA birth. Dietary antioxidants have been shown to attenuate ethanol‐induced harm in animal models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. We conducted a secondary analysis of a longitudinal birth cohort to explore whether vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids modified the relationship between maternal binge drinking during pregnancy and small for gestational age (SGA). However, we found no evidence of effect modification and associations between binge drinking, dietary antioxidants and SGA were attenuated once potential confounders were added to the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mango fruit (Mangifera indica L.) is renowned for its pleasant taste and as a rich source of health beneficial compounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in concentrations of health‐promoting compounds, namely ascorbic acid, carotenoids, antioxidants, lupeol, mangiferin, total phenols and individual phenolic acids, as well as ethylene production and respiration rates during climacteric ripening in ‘Kensington Pride’ and ‘R2E2’ mango fruit. RESULTS: The climacteric ethylene and respiration peaks were noted on the third day of the fruit ripening period. The concentrations of total carotenoids in the pulp, total antioxidants in both pulp and peel, and total phenols of the peel, lupeol and mangiferin were significantly elevated, whereas the concentration of ascorbic acid declined during post‐climacteric ripening. Gallic, chlorogenic and vanillic acids were identified as the major phenolic acids in both pulp and peel of ‘Kensington Pride’ and ‘R2E2’ mangoes. The concentrations of phenolic acids (gallic, chlorogenic, vanillic, ferulic and caffeic acids) also increased during the post‐climacteric phase. The concentrations of all phenolic compounds were several‐fold higher in the peel than pulp. CONCLUSION: Mangoes at post‐climacteric ripening phase offer the highest concentrations of health‐promoting compounds. Peel, at this stage of fruit ripening, could be exploited as a good source for extraction of these compounds. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psidium guajava L. have been reported to be a rich source of antioxidant compounds. Its carotenoids have been highlighted by their high antioxidant capacity, which offers several benefits for human health. In this sense, lycopene isomers need to be identified. In this work, the comprehensive chemical characterization, by HPLC‐DAD, MS/MS, and NMR, of lycopene isolated from P. guajava L., antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of lycopene extracts and isolated lycopene are evaluated. The FTIR results reported a structure with Z configuration, confirmed by UV‐Vis, with λmax = 448, 473, and 505 nm for 5‐Z lycopene. Furthermore, MS/MS positive ionization shows one fragment m/z 309 [M‐227]+, relatively abundant for isolated lycopene. Experimental and Theoretical NMR studies revealed that guava may contain 5‐Z lycopene because of the similarity found among the peaks. Lycopene extracts presented higher antioxidant activity than isolated lycopene, from both P. guajava L. and tomato, when measured by ABTS and ORAC (r2 = 0.9995 and r2 = 0.9992, respectively). In addition, lycopene extract shows antibacterial efficacy against E. coli, S. aureus, and L. innocua, presenting MBC values of 20 mg mL−1. These results suggest that lycopene extract have potential applicability for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industry. Practical Applications: Lycopene from P. guajava L. is characterized by HPLC‐DAD, MS, NMR, FTIR, and X‐Ray, presented antioxidant capacity by ORAC and antibacterial efficacy against food pathogens. Lycopene is isolated from P. guajava L., and lycopene extracts produced are characterized by HPLC‐DAD and ESI‐MS/MS. Lycopene isolated from P. guajava L. following the process may be 5‐Z isomer of lycopene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recent declines in the foundation species Gelidium corneum (Hudson) J.V. Lamouroux in pristine coastal stretches of the Southeastern Bay of Biscay have been documented in which individuals showed a high bleaching incidence. Among the potential factorsthat may be responsible for these changes in G. corneum abundance, it has been suggested that high levels of irradiance may be imposing stressful environmental conditions for shallow populations. Given that light is reduced exponentially as depth increases, in this investigation we examined the influence of depth on the stress of G. corneum by comparing the performance of several biochemical parameters and thallus size in plants collected at three different depths. The results revealed that plants growing in shallow waters showed lower antioxidant activity, lower concentrations of photosynthetic pigments (Chl‐a, total carotenoids, phycoerythrin), lower internal nitrogen levels (higher C:N ratio) and shorter thallus lengths than those living in deeper waters. Some of these results may be an expression of photoacclimation, but the low antioxidant activity and total carotenoid concentration detected in plants living in shallow waters suggest that the photoprotective mechanisms of G. corneum may have failed to offset photodamage. If so, our findings support previous studies that suggest that recent changes in solar radiation are partially responsible for G. corneum declines. Nevertheless, given that the metabolic performance of macroalgae is determined by the inter‐play of irradiance with other factors, including temperature and nutrient availability, further research is needed to reach a better understanding of the factors causing stress in G. corneum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: To have a better understanding of regulatory mechanism of carotenoid accumulation in sweetcorn (Zea mays L.), we analysed carotenoid profiles, expression patterns of carotenogenic genes and antioxidant activities in two genotypes of sweetcorn during kernel development. The results suggested that the expression of carotenogenic genes played an essential role in carotenoid accumulation and higher expression levels of carotenogenic genes obviously led to higher levels of total carotenoids. It was found that the expression of upstream genes (ZmPDS,ZmZDS and ZmCRTISO) had major influence on the content of total carotenoid during kernel development. The accumulation of lycopene was closely related to the coordination of upstream and downstream genes. The expression of ZmHYD and ZmZEP was influential on zeaxanthin accumulation, which was also influenced by the rate of ZmCHYB/ZmCHYE. Expression levels of ZmCHYE were still stable in order for α‐xanthophylls largely accumulated during kernel development. Lutein, zeaxanthin, α‐cryptoxanthin and β‐cryptoxanthin constituted the predominant carotenoids in sweetcorn. Two essential stages for carotenoid accumulation were found in sweetcorn during kernel development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 1 in 2000 infants is born with a limb deficiency in the US. Research has shown that women's periconceptional diet and use of vitamin supplements can affect risk of birth defects. We investigated whether maternal consumption of nutritional antioxidants was associated with occurrence of transverse limb deficiency (TLD) and longitudinal limb deficiencies (LLD).Methods: We analysed case-control data from mothers and their singleton infants with TLD (n = 566), LLD (n = 339), or no malformation (controls; n = 9384) in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (1997-2009). Using a modified food frequency, we estimated usual pre-pregnancy antioxidant consumption by total fruit and vegetable consumption (in grams) grouped into tertiles, and cumulative antioxidant score (ranging from 1 to 10) based on consumption of three antioxidants: beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein. We estimated odds ratios (OR) adjusted for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, smoking, alcohol use, body mass index, and total energy.Results: Compared to women in the lowest tertile of fruit and vegetable consumption, women in the highest tertile were less likely to have infants with TLD (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.57, 0.96) or LLD (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.59, 1.13). Compared to the lowest antioxidant consumption score of 1, those with the highest score of 10 had ORs of 0.68 (95% CI 0.48, 0.95) for TLD and 0.77 (95% CI 0.50, 1.17) for LLD.Conclusions: Dietary intake of antioxidants was associated with reduced odds of limb deficiencies. These findings add further evidence for women's periconceptional diet reducing occurrence of some birth defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The peel of Gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng.) contains high levels of bioactive compounds, especially carotenoids which possess significant antioxidant capacities. However, the peel of Gac is regarded as a waste from the production of carotenoid‐rich oil from Gac fruit. In this study, carotenoids of Gac peel were extracted by microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) using ethyl acetate as extraction solvent. The effect of extraction time and different levels of microwave and ultrasonic powers on the yield of total carotenoid and antioxidant capacity of the extracts were investigated. The results showed that an extraction at 120 W for 25 min and an extraction at 200 W for 80 min were the most effective for MAE and UAE of the Gac peel samples, respectively. The maximum carotenoid and antioxidant capacity yields of UAE were significantly higher than those of the MAE. The antioxidant capacity of extract obtained by the UAE was also significantly higher that of the conventional extraction using the same ratio of solvent to material. The results showed that both MAE and UAE could be used to reduce the extraction time significantly in comparison with conventional extraction of Gac peel while still obtained good extraction efficiencies. Thus, MAE and UAE are recommended for the improvement of carotenoid and antioxidant capacity extraction from Gac peel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A nutrition rich in fruit and vegetables and a healthy lifestyle become more and more important in the industrial countries to counteract oxidative stress and promote health. For many years, it has been possible to control human cutaneous carotenoids noninvasively by resonance Raman spectroscopic systems and by spatially resolved reflectance spectroscopy. Methods: Ten volunteers took a commercially available fruit and vegetable extract daily for a time period of 5 weeks. A second group served as control group and did not take any supplements (10 volunteers). To monitor the status of the cutaneous carotenoids noninvasively, an optical sensor based on multiple spatially resolved reflectance spectroscopy was applied once a week. Results: The study could demonstrate that the intake of the supplement significantly increase the cutaneous carotenoid values of the young adults by 50%. The control group without any supplementation showed also significantly increased values, ie, by 10%, which might be due to the fact that their lifestyle was controlled. Conclusion: The results illustrate that a biofeedback by measuring the skin carotenoids could improve the lifestyle of young adults and that a regular consumption of fruit and vegetables directly or as a drink can increase the concentration of cutaneous carotenoids significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Reciprocating agitation thermal processing (RA-TP) is a recent innovation in the field of canning for obtaining high-quality canned food. The objective of this study was to compare RA-TP processing with conventional non-agitated (still) processing with respect to the impact on quality (color, antioxidant capacity, total phenols, carotenoid and lycopene contents) of canned tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum) puree. RESULTS Owing to a 63-81% reduction in process times as compared with still processing, tomato puree with a brighter red color (closer to fresh) was obtained during RA-TP. At 3 Hz reciprocation frequency, the loss of antioxidant, lycopene and carotenoid contents could be reduced to 34, 8 and 8% respectively as compared with 96, 41 and 52% respectively during still processing. In fact, the phenolic content for RA-TP at 3 Hz was 5% higher than in fresh puree. Quality retention generally increased with an increase in frequency, although the differences were less significant at higher reciprocation frequencies (between 2 and 3 Hz). CONCLUSION Research findings indicate that RA-TP can be effective to obtain thermally processed foods with high-quality attribute retention. It can also be concluded that a very high reciprocation frequency (>3 Hz) is not necessarily needed and significant quality improvement can be obtained at lower frequencies (∼2 Hz). © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids and retinoids have several similar biological activities such as antioxidant properties, the inhibition of malignant tumour growth and the induction of apoptosis. Supplementation with carotenoids can affect cell growth and modulate gene expression and immune responses. Epidemiological studies have shown a correlation between a high carotenoid intake in the diet with a reduced risk of breast, cervical, ovarian, colorectal cancers, and cardiovascular and eye diseases. Cancer chemoprevention by dietary carotenoids involves several mechanisms, including effects on gap junctional intercellular communication, growth factor signalling, cell cycle progression, differentiation-related proteins, retinoid-like receptors, antioxidant response element, nuclear receptors, AP-1 transcriptional complex, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, carotenoids can stimulate the proliferation of B- and T-lymphocytes, the activity of macrophages and cytotoxic T-cells, effector T-cell function and the production of cytokines. Recently, the beneficial effects of carotenoid-rich vegetables and fruits in health and in decreasing the risk of certain diseases has been attributed to the major carotenoids, β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, crocin (/crocetin) and curcumin, due to their antioxidant effects. It is thought that carotenoids act in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In this review, we briefly describe the biological and immunological activities of the main carotenoids used for the treatment of various diseases and their possible mechanisms of action.Linked Articles: This article is part of a themed section on Principles of Pharmacological Research of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.11/issuetoc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Lipophilic antioxidants in tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum) fruits exert important functions in reducing the risk of human diseases. Here the effect of thermal processing on the antioxidant activity of lipophilic extracts from the commercial tomato hybrid 'Zebrino' was analysed. Carotenoid content and lipophilic antioxidant activity were determined and the ability of tomato extracts in rescuing cells from oxidative stress was assessed. RESULTS Lipophilic antioxidant activity was completely retained after heat treatment and extracts were able to mitigate the detrimental effect induced by oxidative stress on different cell lines. Lycopene alone was able to rescue cells from oxidative stress, even if to a lower extent compared with tomato extracts. These results were probably due to the synergistic effect of tomato compounds in protecting cells from oxidative stress injury. CONCLUSION The current study provides valuable insights into the health effect of the dietary carotenoids present in fresh and processed tomato fruits. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The antioxidant hypothesis regarding the risk of asthma in childhood has resulted in inconsistent findings. Some data indicate that the role of antioxidants in childhood asthma risk may have a critical time window of effect, but only a well-designed longitudinal cohort study can clarify this hypothesis. Objective To study the longitudinal associations between serum carotenoid and tocopherol concentrations during the first 4 years of life and asthma risk by the age of 5 years. Methods Based on a case-control design nested within a Finnish birth cohort, 146 asthma cases were matched to 270 controls on birth time, sex, genetic risk, and birth place. Non-fasting blood samples were collected at the ages of 1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 years and serum carotenoids and tocopherols were analysed. Parents reported the presence and age at start of persistent doctor-diagnosed asthma in the child at the age of 5 years. Data analyses were conducted using generalized estimating equations. Results We did not find strong associations between serum carotenoids and tocopherols and the risk of asthma based on age-specific and longitudinal analyses. Both lower and higher quarters of α-carotene and γ-tocopherol increased the risk of asthma. Conclusions The current findings do not support the suggestion that the increased prevalence of asthma may be a consequence of decreased intake of antioxidant nutrients. Moreover, we did not confirm any critical time window of impact of antioxidants on asthma risk. Replication of these findings in similar longitudinal settings will strengthen this evidence base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Biofortified maize is not only a good vehicle for provitamin A carotenoids for vitamin A deficient populations in developing countries but also a source of vitamin E, tocochromanols and phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant properties. Using high-performance liquid chromatography and a total antioxidant performance assay, the present study analyzed the antioxidant variation and antioxidant activity of 36 provitamin A improved maize hybrids and one common yellow maize hybrid. RESULTS The ranges of major carotenoids in provitamin A carotenoids biofortified maize were zeaxanthin [1.2-13.2 µg g−1 dry weight ( DW)], β-cryptoxanthin (1.3-8.8 µg g−1 DW) and β-carotene (1.3-8.0 µg g−1 DW). The ranges of vitamin E compounds identified in provitamin A carotenoids biofortified maize were α-tocopherol (3.4-34.3 µg g−1 DW), γ-tocopherol (5.9-54.4 µg g−1 DW), α-tocotrienol (2.6-19.5 µg g−1 DW) and γ-tocotrienol (45.4 µg g−1 DW). The ranges of phenolic compounds were γ-oryzanol (0.0-0.8 mg g−1 DW), ferulic acid (0.4-3.6 mg g−1 DW) and p-coumaric acid (0.1-0.45 mg g−1 DW). There was significant correlation between α-tocopherol and cis isomers of β-carotene ( P < 0.01). Tocotrienols were correlated with α-tocopherol and γ-oryzanol ( P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Genotype was significant in determining the variation in β-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, α-tocopherol and γ-tocopherol contents ( P < 0.01). A genotype × environment interaction was observed for γ-tocopherol content ( P < 0.01). © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Thermal processing causes a number of undesirable changes in physicochemical and bioactive properties of tomato products. Microwave ( MW) technology is an emergent thermal industrial process that offers a rapid and uniform heating, high energy efficiency and high overall quality of the final product. The main quality changes of tomato puree after pasteurization at 96 ± 2 °C for 35 s, provided by a semi-industrial continuous microwave oven ( MWP) under different doses (low power/long time to high power/short time) or by conventional method ( CP) were studied. RESULTS All heat treatments reduced colour quality, total antioxidant capacity and vitamin C, with a greater reduction in CP than in MWP. On the other hand, use of an MWP, in particular high power/short time (1900 W/180 s, 2700 W/160 s and 3150 W/150 s) enhanced the viscosity and lycopene extraction and decreased the enzyme residual activity better than with CP samples. For tomato puree, polygalacturonase was the more thermo-resistant enzyme, and could be used as an indicator of pasteurization efficiency. CONCLUSION MWP was an excellent pasteurization technique that provided tomato puree with improved nutritional quality, reducing process times compared to the standard pasteurization process. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Wheat grain ( Triticum aestivum L.) possesses significant amounts of antioxidants that contribute to the dietary antiradical protection against a number of chronic diseases. Despite the increasing interest in organic food among both consumers and scientists, the availability of literature studies concerning the environment effect under organic management is still scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of wheat varieties by considering the genotype response to different environmental factors under biodynamic management. RESULTS The soluble fraction of phenolic compounds was mainly determined by the environment, whereas a major genotypic effect was observed for the bound forms, which were present at higher amounts in red grain varieties. Moreover, a predominant effect of genotype was observed for yellow pigment content and antioxidant activity determined by the FRAP method. Despite some changes induced by environment, most genotypes had stable antioxidant properties and different phenolic profiles as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, except for the old variety Inallettabile, which was the most sensitive to environmental fluctuations. CONCLUSION The red grain varieties Andriolo, Gentil rosso and Verna were identified as the most promising breeding material for the development of varieties with high nutraceutical value under low-input management. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dietary modification, through supplementation and elimination diets, has become an area of interest to help slow skin aging, reduce symptom severity or prevent reoccurrence of certain dermatologic conditions [Clinical Dermatology vol. 31 (2013) 677-700]. Free radical components (reactive oxygen species or ROS) or lipid peroxide ( LPO) is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of accelerated skin aging when prolonged oxidative stress occurs. The use of antioxidant-related therapies such as nutraceuticals is of particular interest in restoring skin homeostasis. Antioxidant carotenoid zeaxanthin is concentrated in the eye and skin tissue and believed to decrease the formation of ROS associated with UV light exposure. With zeaxanthin, phytoceramides, and botanical extracts an oral and topical test product (with zeaxanthin, algae extracts, peptides, hyaluronate) have been developed to improve the appearance and condition of skin when used as directed. Methods Subjects were divided into three groups: two tests (skin formula 1 - oral product alone ( ZO-1), skin formula 2- oral product with topical product ( ZO-2 + ZT)), and one placebo control. The study consisted of a washout visit, baseline (randomization), week two (2), week four (4), week six (6), week eight (8), and week twelve (12). Key parameters measured were as follows: fine lines, deep lines, total wrinkles, wrinkle severity, radiance/skin color (L, a*, b*), discolorations, and skin pigment homogeneity. Results Thirty-one subjects completed the twelve-week study; no adverse events were recorded during the study. Statistically significant improvements from baseline mean hydration score were observed in active groups at weeks 2, 6, and 8. A statistically significant difference was observed between mean differences from baseline scores for total wrinkle count at week 4 for the combination active groups compared to placebo. A statistically significant difference from baseline scores for fine lines count was also observed at the week 4 visit compared to placebo for both active groups. Statistically significant differences from baseline scores for average wrinkles severity were seen for week 12 visit for both active groups compared to placebo. Conclusion We have shown that the combination of zeaxanthin-based dietary supplement plus a topical formulation produces superior hydration to that of placebo. Additionally, we have shown that the combination of oral and topical combination vs. oral alone has superior abilities to improve parameters associated with facial lines and wrinkles compared to placebo, although the dietary supplement alone proved most effective in reducing wrinkle count and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxidative stress is proposed to be one of the potential mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. However, previous epidemiologic studies investigating associations between antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamins E and C and carotenoids, and PD risk have produced inconsistent results.Objective: The objective of this work was to prospectively examine associations between intakes of antioxidant vitamins, including vitamins E and C and carotenoids, and PD risk.Methods: Cases were identified in two large cohorts: the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Cohort members completed semiquantitative food frequency questionnaires every 4 years.Results: A total of 1036 PD cases were identified. Dietary intakes of vitamin E and carotenoids were not associated with PD risk; the multivariable-adjusted relative risk comparing extreme intake quintiles were 0.93 (95% confidence interval: 0.75-1.14) and 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.69-1.37), respectively. Dietary vitamin C intake was significantly associated with reduced PD risk (relative risk: 0.81; 95% confidence interval: 0.65-1.01; ptrend , 0.01); however, this result was not significant in a 4-year lag analysis. For vitamins E and C, intake from foods and supplements combined were also unrelated to PD risk.Conclusions: Our results do not support the hypothesis that intake of antioxidant vitamins reduces the risk of PD. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations were carried out to study the influence of the formulation on the drying characteristics and the final quality of foam-mat-dried uvaia pulp powder, such as total phenolic content, carotenoids and antioxidant activity. Two formulations were developed (one with 3.5% albumin (Alb.), 0.25% carboxymethylcellulose ( CMC) and 0.25% xanthan gum ( XG), and the other containing only 7% albumin) and dried at 60 and 70 °C. Drying kinetics showed only a falling rate at both temperatures and formulations. Mathematical models were fitted to the experimental data to describe the drying kinetics. The Page model provided the best description of the foams. The higher temperatures reduced the drying time and increased the effective diffusivity. Compared with the fresh pulp, the uvaia powder at 70 °C exhibited decreased antioxidant activity, total phenolics and carotenoids contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male ornaments are hypothesized to signal the ability of males to produce an effective immune response without extensive oxidative stress and damage to DNA., We examined this hypothesis in male common yellowthroats ( Geothlypis trichas), which have two ornaments, a black (eumelanin-based) facial mask and a yellow (carotenoid-based) bib. In our study population, only the black mask is sexually selected., As predicted by the oxidative stress hypothesis, males with larger black masks were more resistant to oxidative stress, as measured by an in vitro assay of the resistance of erythrocytes to haemolysis by free radicals. Furthermore, males with larger masks also tended to have lower levels of glutathione, which was predicted because glutathione inhibits eumelanin production. In contrast, mask size was not related to absolute levels of oxidative stress measured in the plasma., Although the yellow bib is not under sexual selection in our population, males with larger bibs and feathers with greater carotenoid chroma had lower levels of oxidative stress., The oxidative stress hypothesis was first proposed for carotenoid-based ornaments. However, our results suggest that, even in the same individuals, carotenoid and eumelanin-based plumage ornaments may both signal the ability of males to resist or manage oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are health-promoting organic molecules that act as antioxidants and essential nutrients. We show that chickens raised on a diet enriched with an engineered corn variety containing very high levels of four key carotenoids (β-carotene, lycopene, zeaxanthin and lutein) are healthy and accumulate more bioavailable carotenoids in peripheral tissues, muscle, skin and fat, and more retinol in the liver, than birds fed on standard corn diets (including commercial corn supplemented with colour additives). Birds were challenged with the protozoan parasite Eimeria tenella and those on the high-carotenoid diet grew normally, suffered only mild disease symptoms (diarrhoea, footpad dermatitis and digital ulcers) and had lower faecal oocyst counts than birds on the control diet. Our results demonstrate that carotenoid-rich corn maintains poultry health and increases the nutritional value of poultry products without the use of feed additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapefruit juice was investigated using pulsed electric fields ( PEF) with (electric field strengths: 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 kV cm−1; flow rate: 80 mL min−1; pulse frequency: 1 kHz at 40 °C for 600 μs). Total phenolics, DPPH, total antioxidant capacity ( TAC), total anthocyanins, total carotenoids, sugars and physicochemical properties of grapefruit juice were studied. In addition, the effect of PEF treatment on micro-organisms was also observed. Results indicated that no significant change was observed in pH, Brix, titratable acidity, sugars, total anthocyanins and colour attributes with the increase in pulsed electric strength as compared to control treatment. However, significant decrease in nonenzymatic browning ( NEB) and viscosity while an increase in cloud value, DPPH, TAC, total phenolics and total carotenoids, while reduction in the activity of micro-organisms, was also observed with the increase in pulsed electric strength as compared to control treatment. This study suggested that PEF at 25 kV cm−1 could improve the quality of grapefruit juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blackcurrant, blueberry, and muscadine grape juices were efficiently sorbed, concentrated, and stabilized into dry granular ingredient matrices which combined anti-inflammatory and antioxidant fruit polyphenols with sweet potato functional constituents (carotenoids, vitamins, polyphenols, fibers). Total phenolics were highest in blackcurrant-orange sweet potato ingredient matrices (34.03 mg/g), and lowest in muscadine grape-yellow sweet potato matrices (10.56 mg/g). Similarly, anthocyanins were most concentrated in blackcurrant-fortified orange and yellow sweet potato matrices (5.40 and 6.54 mg/g, respectively). Alternatively, other protein-rich edible matrices (defatted soy flour, light roasted peanut flour, and rice protein concentrate) efficiently captured polyphenols (6.09-9.46 mg/g) and anthocyanins (0.77-1.27 mg/g) from purple-fleshed sweet potato juice, with comparable efficiency. Antioxidant activity correlated well with total phenolic content. All formulated ingredient matrices stabilized and preserved polyphenols for up to 24 weeks, even when stored at 37°C. Complexation with juice-derived polyphenols did not significantly alter protein or carbohydrate profiles of the matrices. Sensory evaluation of the ingredient matrices suggested potential uses for a wide range of functional food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess whether maternal plasma antioxidant levels in mid-pregnancy are associated with small-for-gestational-age ( SGA) birth. Design Case-control study nested within a population-based cohort study. Setting Four hospitals in Montreal, Canada. Population Pregnant women recruited before 24 weeks of gestation, whose pregnancies were not complicated by pre-eclampsia or preterm delivery. Methods Blood samples were obtained at 24-26 weeks and assayed for nutritionally derived antioxidant levels in SGA cases ( n = 324) and randomly selected controls with birthweights between the 25th and 75th centiles ( n = 672). We performed logistic regression analyses using the standardised z-score of each antioxidant as the main independent variable, after summing highly correlated antioxidants or combining via principle component analysis. We adjusted for risk factors for SGA that were associated with antioxidant levels. Main outcome measures SGA, birthweight <10th centile for gestational age and sex. Results Retinol was positively associated with risk of SGA (adjusted odds ratio [ OR] 1.41; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.22-1.63, per SD increase). Carotenoids (log of the sum of β-carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin, α- and β-cryptoxanthin) were negatively associated with SGA (adjusted OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.54-0.78, per SD increase). We found no significant associations between SGA and lycopene or any of the forms of vitamin E assessed, including α-tocopherol, corrected α-tocopherol (per nmol/l of low-density lipoprotein articles), or γ-tocopherol. Conclusions Elevated retinol may be associated with an increased risk of SGA, whereas elevated carotenoid levels may reduce the risk. A better understanding of the nature of these associations is required, however, before recommending specific nutritional interventions in an attempt to prevent SGA birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study related to increase in minimal erythemal dose following oral administration of an antioxidant complex based on a mix of carotenoids. It mentions use of naturally occurring substances with antioxidant and photoprotective effects to complement solar filters in strategies designed to minimize the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR). It also mentions use of carotenes and xanthophylls as an adjuvant treatment in photosensitivity conditions.

Pesticide research traditionally has focused on compounds with high acute toxicity or persistence, but the adverse sublethal effects of pesticides with different properties also may have important consequences on exposed wildlife. The authors studied the effects of thiram, a fungicide used for seed coating with known effects as endocrine disruptor. Red-legged partridges ( Alectoris rufa; n = 15 pairs per treatment group) were fed wheat treated with 0%, 20%, or 100% of the thiram application rate used in autumn (25 d) and late winter (10 d) to mimic cereal sowing periods. The authors studied the effects on reproductive performance, carotenoid-based ornamentation and cellular immune responsiveness of adult partridges, and their relationship with changes in oxidative stress biomarkers and plasma biochemistry. The authors also studied the effect of parental exposure on egg antioxidant content and on the survival, growth, and cellular immune response of offspring. Exposure to thiram-coated seeds delayed egg laying, reduced clutch size, and affected egg size and eggshell thickness. Partridges exposed to the 20% thiram dose exhibited reduced egg fertility and brood size (55% and 28% of controls, respectively). Chick survival was unaffected by parental exposure to treated seeds, but adverse effects on their growth rate and cellular immune response were apparent. These effects on reproduction and immune function may have important demographic consequences on farmland bird populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1320-1329. © 2015 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND In this work three different techniques were applied to extract dry leaves of spinach ( Spinacia oleracea): solid-liquid extraction ( SLE), pressurised liquid extraction ( PLE) and supercritical fluid extraction ( SFE) to investigate the influence of extraction solvent and technique on extracts composition and antioxidant activity. Moreover, the influence of carotenoids and phenolic compounds on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of spinach extracts was also studied. RESULTS The higher concentrations of carotenoids and the lower content of phenolic compounds were observed in the supercritical CO2 extracts; whereas water and/or ethanol PLE extracts presented low amounts of carotenoids and the higher concentrations of phenolic compounds. PLE extract with the highest content of phenolic compounds showed the highest antioxidant activity, although SFE carotenoid rich extract also showed a high antioxidant activity. Moreover, both extracts presented an important anti-inflammatory activity. CONCLUSION PLE seems to be a good technique for the extraction of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds from spinach leaves. Moreover, spinach phenolic compounds and carotenoids present a high antioxidant activity, whereas spinach carotenoids seem to show a higher anti-inflammatory activity than phenolic compounds. It is worth noting that of our knowledge this is the first time the anti-inflammatory activity of lipophilic extracts from spinach leaves is reported. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the eighth leading cancer among women in incidence and commonly is diagnosed at a more advanced stage. Oxidative stress has been considered to play an important role in the pathogenesis of RCC. Various dietary micronutrients have antioxidant properties, including carotenoids and vitamins C and E; thus, diets rich in these nutrients have been evaluated in relation to RCC prevention. The objective of this study was to explore the correlation between antioxidant micronutrients and the risk of RCC. METHODS In total, 96,196 postmenopausal women who enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) between 1993 and 1998 and were followed through July 2013 were included in this analysis. Dietary micronutrient intake was estimated from the baseline WHI food frequency questionnaire, and data on supplement use were collected using an interview-based inventory procedure. RCC cases were ascertained from follow-up surveys and were centrally adjudicated. The risks for RCC associated with intake of α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein plus zeaxanthin, lycopene, vitamin C, and vitamin E were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for confounders. RESULTS Two hundred forty women with RCC were identified during follow-up. Lycopene intake was inversely associated with RCC risk ( P = .015); compared with the lowest quartile of lycopene intake, the highest quartile of intake was associated with a 39% lower risk of RCC (hazard ratio, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.97). No other micronutrient was significantly associated with RCC risk. CONCLUSIONS The current results suggest that further investigation into the correlation between lycopene intake and the risk of RCC is warranted. Cancer 2015;121:580-588. © 2014 American Cancer Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red guava ( Psidium cattleyanum Sabine) and guabiju ( Myrcianthes pungens (O. Berg) D. Legrand) are small fruits that are native to southern Brazil. This study evaluated the physicochemical composition, antioxidant activity and functional compounds of both fruits. Red guava exhibited a large amount of dietary fibre. Guabiju showed more antioxidant activity, had a higher anthocyanin content and had a higher carotenoid content. In the guabiju fruit, β-carotene represented 40.4% of the total carotenoids, and malvidin 3-glycoside represented 60% of the total anthocyanin content. β-Cryptoxanthin was the predominant carotenoid in red guava, representing 44.8% of the total carotenoids; cyanidin 3-glycoside was the predominant anthocyanin, representing 51.7% of the total anthocyanins. These native fruits could represent an alternative to traditionally consumed fruits, and then, the characterisation of bioactive compounds of fruits such as red guava and guabiju represents important information to the consumers who looking for a healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) as a promising delivery system have specific advantages over other nanocarriers for food applications. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of different antioxidants on physical and chemical stability of NLC containing astaxanthin, a hydrophobic nutraceutical. Antioxidants (EDTA, ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, coenzyme Q10) were added to aqueous and/or lipid phases. Tween 80 and lecithin were utilized as stabilizers; NLC formulations were produced by melt emulsification-sonication technique, and then stored at 35°C for 15 days. Except formulations with high levels of EDTA or ascorbic acid, others yielded small nanoparticles ( Z-average ≈ 94 nm) which were stable to growth during storage. Of these antioxidants, only EDTA and α-tocopherol increased the stability of astaxanthin without causing physical instability, and EDTA was more efficient. The utilization of α-tocopherol and EDTA in combination was more effective than using them individually. Storage temperature and artificial light had significant effects on the stability of astaxanthin in NLC. These results provide useful information for choosing antioxidants and storage conditions to further protection of nutraceuticals within NLC. Practical applications: Fortification of aqueous-based foods with carotenoids is greatly restricted owing to their poor water-solubility, chemical instability, and low bioavailability. NLC immobilize the encapsulated compounds effectively, and can improve their stability and bioavailability in aqueous-based foods. However, pro-oxidants can still decrease the chemical stability of NLC. Different antioxidants were employed to further increase the chemical stability of astaxanthin-loaded NLC. It was found that degradation of astaxanthin in NLC could be significantly reduced by utilizing proper chelators and free radical scavengers. But, higher temperatures and light could still decrease the stability of astaxanthin. These results provide strong evidences for utilizing metal chelators and free radical scavengers in carotenoids-loaded NLC, and for storing commercial foods and beverages fortified with these nanoparticles at low temperature and darkness. Degradation profiles of astaxanthin in astaxanthin-NLC containing 100 ppm EDTA in aqueous phase and/or different concentrations of α-tocopherol (in lipid phase) after production (on 0th day) and during storage at 35°C ( n = 3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal resources deposited in eggs can aff ect the development of several off spring phenotypic traits and result in tradeoff s among them. For example, maternal androgens in eggs may be beneficial to off spring growth and competitive ability, but detrimental to immunocompetence and oxidative stress. In contrast, maternal antioxidants in eggs may be beneficial if they mitigate oxidative stress and immunosuppressive eff ects of androgens. We investigated possible interactive eff ects of maternal steroids and carotenoids on aspects of off spring physiology and phenotype, by simultaneously manipulating levels of androgens (via gonadotropin-releasing hormone, GnRH-challenges) and carotenoids (via diet supplementation) in captive female Japanese quail Coturnix japonica during egg laying. Carotenoid supplementation of hens, which elevates yolk concentrations of carotenoid and vitamins A and E, enhanced egg hatching success, off spring survival to age 15 d, and size of the bursa of Fabricius in off spring. In contrast, repeated maternal GnRH challenges, which elevated yolk testosterone concentrations, enhanced off spring neonatal size, but negatively aff ected bursa size. However, interaction among the treatments suggests that the positive eff ect of maternal carotenoid supplementation on plasma bactericidal capacity was mediated by maternal GnRH challenges. Chicks originating from carotenoid-supplemented hens were less immunosuppressed than those originating from carotenoid-supplemented + GnRH-challenged hens, which were less immunosuppressed than chicks from GnRH-challenged females not supplemented with carotenoids. Females availability of carotenoid enriched diets allows them to enhance the development of off spring immune system via carotenoids and vitamins deposited in egg yolks and off set detrimental eff ects of androgens deposited by GnRHchallenged females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Wide germplasm diversity and transferability of antioxidant parameters is the primary requirement for the development of high-antioxidant tomato cultivars. The present study was conducted to screen tomato genotypes including hybrids, varieties, cherry tomatoes, wild species, elite germplasm lines, interspecific hybrids and backcross populations for antioxidant activity and other quality parameters to select high-antioxidant lines with good total soluble solids (TSS) for further usage in crop improvement programmes. RESULTS Wild species and interspecific hybrids between LA-1777 ( Solanum habrochaites) and an elite genotype 15SBSB recorded very high antioxidant capacity (FRAP), DPPH radical-scavenging ability, and high phenols and flavonoids. Interspecific hybrids also recorded very high total soluble solids (TSS). Significantly higher total carotenoids, lycopene and vitamin C were observed in IIHR-249-1 with moderately higher TSS. Cherry tomato lines IIHR-2866, 2865 and 2864 recorded four to five times more β-carotene than commercial hybrids/varieties. CONCLUSION Tomato line IIHR-249-1 can be used for improving antioxidant capacity, total carotenoids and lycopene in tomato breeding programmes. Cherry tomato lines IIHR-2866, 2865 and 2864 can be used for improving β-carotene content. LA-1777 and interspecific hybrids could be used for developing tomato lines rich in antioxidants as well as TSS. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life-history theory predicts that organisms should allocate energy throughout their life such that they maximize their fitness. Copepod zooplankton are known to accumulate sunscreens (so-called mycosporine-like amino acids, MAAs) and antioxidant carotenoids to mitigate negative effects of ultraviolet radiation ( UVR), but it is not well known how this affects their fitness., We followed cohorts of the marine copepod Acartia tonsa and assessed how fitness was affected by UVR exposure and a diet rich in UVR-protective sunscreens., Several fitness components including somatic growth, egg quality and nauplii production (larvae) were negatively affected by UVR, whereas other components such as size at maturity, survival and length of life were not. Nauplii production through low egg quality was the most influential life-history parameter that changed in response to UVR., There was interaction between fitness costs and food source. If copepods were fed a diet rich in UVR-screening MAAs, they were able to maintain and even increase their fitness even though they were exposed to otherwise detrimental radiation. Levels of UVR-protective carotenoids were low in the studied species and a meta-analysis revealed that marine copepods in general have much lower - by an order of magnitude - levels of carotenoids than freshwater species, while levels of MAAs are similar between the two habitats., We conclude that allocation to different fitness components to some extent is plastic although egg quality is by far the most influential factor, and this is an example of how environmental variability affects overall fitness. Fitness costs associated with UVR exposure in the absence of UVR-screening MAAs were present. Other costs such as costs for accumulating MAAs were not detected, and if present, they were outweighed by a stimulated fitness in combined UVR and MAA treatments challenging the common model that inducible defences (such as accumulation of MAAs) should come with a cost. Low levels of carotenoids in marine systems suggest high predation pressures on pigmented specimens. Accumulation of nonpigmented MAAs could hence be a key adaptation for surface-dwelling marine zooplankton to maintain or even increase their fitness when exposed to detrimental radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary sources of polyphenols, which are derivatives and/or isomers of flavones, isoflavones, flavonols, catechins and phenolic acids, possess antioxidant properties and therefore might be important in preventing oxidative-stress-induced platelet activation and attenuating adverse haemostatic function. Free radicals, including reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, promote oxidative stress, leading to platelet hyperactivation and the risk of thrombosis. The consumption of antioxidant/polyphenol rich foods might therefore impart anti-thrombotic and cardiovascular protective effects via their inhibition of platelet hyperactivation or aggregation. Most commonly-used anti-platelet drugs such as aspirin block the cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 pathway of platelet activation, similar to the action of antioxidants with respect to neutralising hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), with a similar effect on thromboxane production via the COX-1 pathway. Polyphenols also target various additional platelet activation pathways (e.g. by blocking platelet- ADP, collagen receptors); thus alleviating fibrinogen binding to platelet surface ( GPIIb- IIIa) receptors, reducing further platelet recruitment for aggregation and inhibiting platelet degranulation. As a result of the ability of polyphenols to target additional pathways of platelet activation, they may have the potential to substitute or complement currently used anti-platelet drugs in sedentary, obese, pre-diabetic or diabetic populations who can be resistant or sensitive to pharmacological anti-platelet therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Herbhoneys, relatively new bee products, are expected to have interesting medicinal properties. However, there is still a lack of data concerning their composition and antioxidant properties. 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy coupled with chemometric analysis ( PCA and PLS-DA) and antioxidant assays ( DPPH-ESR and ORAC-FL) were used to study 25 samples of Polish herbhoneys and honeys. RESULTS Antioxidant activity varied among the samples. The best properties were exhibited by cocoa and instant coffee herbhoneys. The contents of total polyphenols and total carotenoids in the studied samples were found to be 70-1340 mg GAE kg−1 and 0-28.05 mg kg−1 respectively. No significant differences between herbhoney and honey samples were found in their sugar profiles. The PCA of 13C NMR spectra of the samples in DMSO- d6 resulted in sample clustering due to sucrose content. CONCLUSION Herbhoneys have similar antioxidant properties to traditional honeys, being therefore of equal nutritional value. There was a noticeable influence of the extract concentration on the observed antioxidant effect. For samples with high antioxidant activity, polyphenols were responsible for the observed effect. Sample clustering due to sucrose content in the NMR-PCA study allowed effortless detection of adulteration. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]