Nobiletin, a polymethoxylated flavonoid from citrus, enhances IL-4 production in DO11.10 mice via antigen-presenting cells

Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition


Isoflavone intake is associated with longitudinal changes in hippocampal volume, but not total grey matter volume, in Japanese middle-aged and older community dwellers

This study aimed to clarify the associations between isoflavone intake and the volume changes of brain regions, specifically the hippocampus and total grey matter (TGM), over 10 years in Japanese middle-aged and older community dwellers. Data from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging of 654 men and 671 women aged 40-85 years at baseline (6th wave survey, 2008-2010) who participated in the follow-up study (9th wave survey, 2018-2022) were analyzed. Total isoflavone intake was estimated based on a 3-day dietary record and categorized into quintile groups. The volumes of the hippocampus and TGM were measured by T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and longitudinal FreeSurfer software. Estimated mean brain volume changes by quintile of total isoflavone intake were assessed by a general linear model, with a stratified analysis by age group (< 65/≥65 years). There were no significant associations between quintile of isoflavone intake and both brain volume changes over 10 years in all participants. On stratification by age group, the multivariable-adjusted difference over time and % change in hippocampal volume were more strongly associated with quintile of total isoflavone intake in those aged ≥ 65 years (difference over time: p for trend = 0.009; % change: p for trend = 0.012). There were no significant longitudinal associations between quintile of total isoflavone intake and TGM volume change in both age groups. In older Japanese people aged ≥ 65 years, increased intake of total isoflavones might be a new nutritional strategy to prevent hippocampal atrophy.


Longitudinal associations between dietary diversity and serum lipid markers in Japanese workers.

The aim of this study was to determine the longitudinal associations between dietary diversity score and serum lipid markers in a five-year follow-up period in Japanese workers. This study included 745 participants aged 20-60 years in 2012-2013 without dyslipidemia at baseline who participated at least once from 2013 to 2017. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary diversity score was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity. Principal component analysis was used to determine three dietary patterns: healthy, western, and sweetener. Lipid markers including total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and non-HDL-cholesterol were measured. Generalized estimating equations were used for calculating the cumulative mean of lipid profiles in the follow-up period according to the dietary diversity score at baseline with control of confounding factors. Higher dietary diversity score was inversely associated with serum concentrations of LDL cholesterol (p for trend = 0.028), triglycerides (p for trend = 0.029), and non-HDL cholesterol (p for trend = 0.026) in women. The associations except for the association with serum triglycerides were robust after additional adjustment for three dietary patterns (healthy, western, and sweetener). The association with serum triglycerides disappeared after additional adjustment for a healthy pattern. There was no significant association between dietary diversity and dyslipidemia in men in the follow-up period. This study suggests that dietary diversity is beneficial for lipid profiles in Japanese female workers.


Melanoma antigen is a vaccine candidate against Meth A sarcoma

Sarcoma Meth A is widely used in the field of immunology and oncology study. We found that a mutant cell line, Meth A (mMeth A), was rejected in an in vivo subcutaneous challenge in BALB / c mice. mMeth A cells were not rejected in athymic BALB / c-nu / nu mice and CD8+ cell-depleted BALB / c mice, suggesting that CD8+ cells are required for rejection of mMeth A cells. Microarray analysis showed that melanoma antigen (MAg) was one of the most elevated genes in mMeth A cells. Indeed, quantitative gene expression analysis showed that the expression level of MAg in mMeth A cells was one hundred-times higher than that in Meth A cells. We constructed two types of expression vector coding the MAg gene sequence corresponding to 788-1257 and 1611-2043 and immunized mice with these genes by intramuscular injection. Immunization of a plasmid expressing the Mag 788-1257 gene protected the mice from in vivo Meth A challenge as evaluated by tumor volume and survival rate. The results reveal that MAg is a potential vaccine candidate antigen against Meth A tumors. J. Med. Invest. 72 : 161-166, February, 2025.

The Journal of Medical Investigation : JMI


Associations between dietary diversity and high sensitive C-reactive protein among Japanese workers: findings of a cross-sectional and longitudinal study.

These findings suggest that, in male Japanese workers, higher dietary diversity might be important for maintaining a low inflammatory status.

In the cross-sectional analysis, the hs-CRP concentration in male participants was significantly lower in those who had a high QUANTIDD score (adjusted mean [95% CI]: 0.074 [0.009-0.140] mg/dL in the lower group vs. 0.038 [-0.029-0.105] mg/dL in the higher group, p-value = 0.034). In the longitudinal analysis, the hs-CRP concentration of male participants also tended to be lower in those with higher QUANTIDD scores (p-value = 0.103). In both the cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses in women, there was no significant difference between the lower and higher QUANTIDD score groups.


Flavonoids, nobiletin, heptamethoxyflavone, and genistein enhance antigen-presenting cell function in vitro


Associations between dietary diversity and dyslipidemia among Japanese workers: cross-sectional study and longitudinal study findings.

The results of cross-sectional analysis in this study suggest that the higher diversity of diet might reduce the presence of dyslipidemia in men and the results of longitudinal analysis suggest that a moderate DDS might reduce the risk of dyslipidemia in women. Further studies are needed since the results of cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses in this study were inconsistent.

Cross-sectional analysis showed that the highest DDS reduced the odds of dyslipidemia in men (OR [95% CI] in Tertile 3: 0.67 [0.48-0.95], p value = 0.023). In longitudinal analysis, a moderate DDS reduced the risk of dyslipidemia (OR [95% CI] in Tertile 2: 0.21 [0.07-0.60], p value = 0.003) in women.


Changes in higher-level functional capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults living in Japan.

The findings suggest an association of the COVID-19 pandemic with a decrease in higher-level functional capacity, especially in Social Role, among older adults living in Japan. J. Med. Invest. 71 : 66-74, February, 2024.


The Soy Isoflavone Genistein Enhances IFN-γ-Induced PD-L1 Expression in B16F1 Melanoma Cells in Vitro


Soy isoflavone genistein attenuates the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy in C57BL/6 mice inoculated with B16F1 melanoma and a high PD-L1 expression level reflects tumor resistance.

cells and the concentrations of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α in tumor tissue were not different among the experimental groups. A significant difference was also not found in microbe composition. Interestingly, a high expression level of PD-ligand (L)1 closely reflected the outcome of therapy by genistein or anti-PD-1 antibody. The study showed that a combination of genistein treatment does not improve the effect of immune blockade therapy. It also showed that a high PD-L1 expression level in tumors is a good prediction maker for the outcome of tumor therapy.

Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition


Effects of polymethoxyflavonoids on T helper 17 cell differentiation in vitro and in vivo.


Validation of a dietary balance score in middle-aged and older community-dwelling Japanese

This study assessed the validity of dietary balance scores (DBSs) by investigating the association between DBSs and nutrient adequacy (NA) in two Japanese populations. The participants were 65 community-dwelling Japanese from Tokushima Prefecture and 2,330 community-dwelling Japanese from Aichi Prefecture. Based on food frequency questionnaires or 3-day dietary records, we obtained 18 food groups. The NA score integrates nine beneficial nutrients and two nutrients that should be limited. We calculated four different DBSs: DBS1 consisted of five food groups (score range:0?20), DBS2 consisted of nine food groups (score range:0?36), DBS3 consisted of eight food groups (score range:0?32), and DBS4 consisted of 10 food groups (score range:0?40). Both the Spearman rank correlation coefficient with NA and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) for the nine beneficial nutrients were then estimated to test the performance of each DBS in predicting nutrient intake. The results showed that DBS1 and DBS4 were positively correlated with NA, while the AUC-ROC showed that DBS4 could moderately discriminate individuals with adequate intake levels of all nine nutrients. These findings suggest DBSs (especially DBS4) are useful in assessing dietary balance in middle-aged and older community-dwelling Japanese. J. Med. Invest. 70 : 377-387, August, 2023.


Essential Oil of Citrus sudachi Suppresses T Cell Activation Both In Vitro and In Vivo.

Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology


Validity of dietary diversity assessed using short-form questionnaire among older Japanese community dwellers.

The validity of dietary variety score (DVS) using a short-form questionnaire has not been investigated using dietary diversity based on a quantitative distribution of consumed foods in older Japanese. We examined the association between DVS and objective dietary diversity using a Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity (QUANTIDD) based on the quantitative distribution of foods consumed by older Japanese community dwellers. The subjects were 65 older Japanese community dwellers aged 60?79 years. We used two kinds of scores for assessment of dietary diversity. At first, dietary diversity was determined using DVS calculated from answers to a questionnaire about frequencies of intake of 10 food groups. Second, dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day dietary record with photographs, and dietary diversity was determined using QUANTIDD. The relationships between DVS and QUANTIDD were assessed using partial correlation coefficients controlling for confounders. The correlation coefficient between DVS and QUANTIDD was moderate (r=0.212-0.458). After controlling for confounders, those correlation coefficient between DVS and QUANTIDD remained moderate. The findings suggest that there was a moderate relationship between DVS and QUANTIDD, and DVS using a short-form questionnaire may be useful for assessing dietary diversity in older Japanese community dwellers. J. Med. Invest. 69 : 31-37, February, 2022.

The Journal of Medical Investigation : JMI


Dietary diversity and food choice motives during the COVID-19 pandemic among older Japanese: An Internet Panel Survey.

The findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increase in some food choice motives and a decrease in the frequency of eating out among elderly female Japanese.

Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition


Nobiletin suppresses the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mediated by modulation of T helper 17 cell differentiation

Multiple sclerosis is an organ-specific autoimmune disease that targets the myelin antigen in the central nervous system. Nobiletin is a dietary polymethoxylated flavonoid found in citrus fruits. In this study, we investigated how nobiletin affects the disease state and immune responses to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice. Nobiletin was administered orally from 14 days before immunization until the end of the experiment, and clinical scores were determined. The production levels of interleukin-17A and interferon-γ were measured in a culture supernatant of splenocytes stimulated with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein. In addition, flow cytometric analysis was performed to examine the effect of nobiletin on T cell differentiation . Admin-istration of nobiletin significantly decreased the clinical score and interleukin-17A production in splenocytes. Furthermore, analysis showed that nobiletin significantly suppressed Th17 cell differentiation and interleukin-17A production in a dose-dependent manner. The results suggest that nobiletin attenuates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis severity through modulation of Th17 cell differentiation.


Intake of isoflavones reduces the risk of all-cause mortality in middle-aged Japanese.

The findings suggest that a higher intake of isoflavones might decrease the risk of all-cause mortality, especially in middle-aged Japanese.

There were 491 deaths during the follow-up period. We found inverse associations of the intake of total soy products and intake of each of the isoflavones with all-cause mortality (p for trend < 0.05) in subjects aged < 60 years: the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for all-cause mortality in the highest intake group (third tertile) of total soy products and total isoflavones were 0.32 (0.13-0.78) and 0.35 (0.17-0.73), respectively, compared with the reference group (first tertile). In contrast, there were no significant associations of intake amounts of legumes, soybeans, and isoflavones with all-cause mortality in subjects aged 60 years or older.


Citrus Polymethoxyflavonoids, Nobiletin, Heptamethoxyflavone and Natsudaidain, Suppress T Cell Activation In Vitro and In Vivo


Dietary diversity and characteristics of lifestyle and awareness of health in Japanese workers: a cross-sectional study.

The aim of this study was to clarify the characteristics of lifestyle and health awareness according to dietary diversity in a Japanese worksite population. The participants were 1,312 men and women aged 20 to 63 years who were living in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan during the period 2012-2013. We obtained anthropometric data and information on lifestyle characteristics using a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary diversity was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity (QUANTIDD). The characteristics of lifestyle and health awareness according to quartiles of the QUANTIDD score were assessed using the chi-square test and a general linear model. The higher the QUANTIDD score was, the larger were the proportions of participants who knew the appropriate amount of dietary intake and participants who referred to nutritional component information when choosing and / or buying food. Among participants with higher QUANTIDD scores, the proportion of participants who considered their current diet was good was high in women, whereas the proportion of participants who wanted to improve their diet in the future was high in men. Those results indicate that higher dietary diversity was related to better characteristics of lifestyle and awareness of health. J. Med. Invest. 67 : 255-264, August, 2020.


Inactivation of Extended-spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia Coli by UVA-LED Irradiation System.

The prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli is increasing rapidly and spreading worldwide, particularly in Asia, compared to other regions. In the last ten years, in our hospital, in particular, there has been a < 30% increase. To prevent the spread of ESBL in hospitals and the community, the ultraviolet (UV) A-light-emitting diode (LED) irradiation device was used to inactivate ESBL-E. coli in human livestock and the environment. ESBL-E. coli and E. coli bacterial samples were collected from patients at Tokushima University Hospital (Tokushima City, Japan). The UVA-LED irradiation system had 365 nm single wavelength, and the current of the circuit was set to 0.23 or 0.50 A consistently. Results demonstrated that UVA-LED was useful for the inactivation of ESBL-E. coli and E. coli. The minimum energy dosage required to inactivate ESBL-E. coli and E. coli was 40.76 J/cm2 (45 min) in the first type of UVA-LED and 38.85 J/cm2 (5 min) in the second type. There were no significant differences between ESBL-E. coli and E. coli. The inactivation of ESBL-E. coli was dependent on energy. These findings suggest that UVA-LED with 365 nm single wavelength could be useful for surface decontamination in healthcare facilities. J. Med. Invest. 67 : 163-169, February, 2020.


Sudachitin, polymethoxyflavone from Citrus sudachi, enhances antigen-specific cellular and humoral immune responses in BALB/c mice.

Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition


Associations of dietary diversity with allergic diseases in Japanese workers: a cross-sectional study.

The aim of this study was to determine the associations of dietary diversity with prevalences of allergic diseases. The participants were 1,317 men and women aged 20 to 63 years who were living in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan during the period 2012-2013. We obtained anthropometric data and information on lifestyle characteristics and current medical histories of allergic diseases using a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary diversity was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity (QUANTIDD). The ORs and 95% CIs for each of the allergic diseases with a 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in the QUANTIDD score were estimated, controlling for age, family history of allergic diseases, education, smoking, drinking, physical activity, energy intake and BMI. Higher dietary diversity showed significant inverse dose-response relationships with allergic diseases and allergic rhinitis in women. Multivariate-adjusted ORs (95% CI) for allergic diseases and allergic rhinitis with 1 SD increase in the QUANTIDD score were 0.77 (95% CI: 0.60-0.98, p=0.037) and 0.69 (95% CI: 0.53-0.90, p=0.007), respectively, in women. There were no significant associations between dietary diversity and allergic diseases in men. The results indicate that there is an inverse association between higher dietary diversity and allergic rhinitis in Japanese female workers.


Associations of marital and parental status and family members living together with health-related behaviors in Japanese young workers : a cross-sectional study.

The aim of this study was to clarify the associations of family members living together with healthrelated behaviors in Japanese young workers. The participants were 300 men and women aged 20-39 years in 2015 who had a job. A web-based self-administered questionnaire on status of partnering and parenting, number of family members living together, dietary habits, drinking habit, smoking habit, self-rated health, employment status, working time and commuting time was conducted through Internet. Multiple logistic regression analysis and general linear models were used to assess the association of family members living together with healthrelated behaviors. The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval, p-value) for current drinking in unmarried participants living with their parents compared to unmarried participants living alone was 0.35 (0.13-0.93, p=0.036). The adjusted means of frequency of breakfast skipping and frequency of eating out showed a trend for inverse associations with the presence of a partner and children. However, those associations disappeared after adjustment for age of youngest child. The findings suggest that the presence of parents might affect drinking behavior and that age of youngest child living together might affect the frequency of breakfast skipping in young Japanese workers. J. Med. Invest. 66 : 141-147, February, 2019.

The Journal of Medical Investigation : JMI


Nobiletin Enhances Induction of Antigen-Specific Immune Responses in BALB/c Mice Immunized with Ovalbumin.

Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology


Inverse association between soy food consumption, especially fermented soy products intake and soy isoflavone, and arterial stiffness in Japanese men.

Studies on the associations between soy food consumption and arterial stiffness are rare. The aim of the present study was to evaluate their associations in Japanese men. A total of 652 eligible men, aged 35-69 years, who underwent the measurement of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) as an index of arterial stiffness were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. Information on their lifestyle characteristics, including dietary behavior, was obtained from a structured self-administered questionnaire. The frequency of total soy products as well as fermented and non-fermented soy products intakes was calculated, and the amounts of soy protein and soy isoflavone intakes were also estimated; these were then divided into tertiles and their associations with baPWV values were evaluated using general linear models. Higher frequency of fermented soy products intake was associated with decreased baPWV after adjusting for the multivariable covariates (P value for trend was 0.002, in Model 3). This association did not alter after further adjustment with a biomarker of systemic inflammation (serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)) (P value for trend was 0.001, in Model 4). Total soy isoflavone consumption was also inversely associated with baPWV even after adjusting for multivariable covariates including serum hs-CRP (P value for trend was 0.043, in Model 4); however total soy protein consumption was not. These results demonstrated that greater consumption of soy food, especially fermented soy products and soy isoflavone was associated with reduced arterial stiffness, independent of systemic inflammation, in Japanese men.


Nutrient-derived dietary patterns and their association with metabolic syndrome in a Japanese population

Nutrients have been proposed to be related to metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aims of this study were to identify dietary patterns that correlated with several nutrients using reduced rank regression (RRR) and to examine the association between extracted dietary patterns and prevalence of MetS in a Japanese population. The study population comprised 1,092 Japanese men and women (35-69 years old) who had participated in the baseline survey of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study in Tokushima Prefecture. Dietary patterns were derived with RRR using 46 food items as predictors and six established nutrients (potassium, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C, insoluble dietary fiber, and carotene) as response variables. Associations between extracted dietary patterns and MetS were then examined with logistic regression models. Among the six dietary patterns, dietary pattern 1 (DP1) explained the largest proportion (60.1%) of variance in the six nutrients. Therefore, only DP1 was selected for further analysis. DP1 was characterized by high intake frequency of vegetables, fruits, fish and small fish, natto (fermented soybeans), and deep-fried tofu. After adjustment for potential confounders, significant inverse associations were found between DP1 score and MetS (odds ratio [OR] for each quartile: 1.00, 0.58, 0.60, 0.52; P = 0.02); DP1 and high blood pressure (P = 0.0002); and DP1 and high blood glucose (P = 0.02). A dietary pattern characterized by high intake of vegetables, fruits, fish and small fish, natto, and deep-fried tofu was associated with reduced prevalence of MetS in a Japanese population.


Soy food and isoflavone intake reduces the risk of cognitive impairment in elderly Japanese women.

Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging. Subjects comprised 403 men and 373 women aged 60-81 years at baseline who participated in the follow-up study at least once. Bean, soy product and soy isoflavone intake was assessed using a 3-day dietary record at baseline. Cognitive function was assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). MMSE scores of 23 were used to define cognitive impairment. The relationship between bean, soy product and soy isoflavone intake and cognitive impairment was assessed using a generalized estimating equation. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for cognitive impairment with a 1 s.d. increase in total bean, total soybean and total soy isoflavone intakes were 0.48 (0.28-0.81; p = 0.006), 0.51 (0.32-0.83; p = 0.007), and 0.55 (0.32-0.93; p = 0.026), respectively, in women. Total soybean and soy isoflavone intake might decrease the risk of cognitive impairment in elderly Japanese women.


Dietary calcium intake is associated with serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level in the general Japanese population

The beneficial effects of dietary calcium intake on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, a risk factor of cardiovascular disease, have not been fully elucidated. This study investigated the associations between dietary calcium intake and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in the general Japanese population. We analyzed the data of 2,019 subjects (1,194 men and 825 women) aged 35 to 69 years in a cross-sectional study of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study. Nutrients intake including calcium were estimated using a validated food-frequency questionnaire. Analysis using a general linear model revealed that dietary calcium intake was inversely associated with serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels ( for trend <0.001) after adjustment for age, sex, research group, leisure-time physical activity, smoking habit, drinking habit, dietary intakes (energy, dietary fiber, saturated fatty acids and vitamin D) and menopausal status. The association was slightly attenuated after additional adjustment for body mass index; however, remained significant ( for trend = 0.008). There were no significant interactions between dietary calcium intakes and sex, body mass index, or vitamin D intake for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels. This study have demonstrated that dietary calcium intake was inversely associated with serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in the general population.


Soy product and isoflavone intake associations with allergic diseases in Japanese workers: rhinitis, dermatitis and asthma.

The aim of this study was to determine the associations of intake of soy products and isoflavones with allergic diseases. We conducted a cross-sectional study in 1437 participants (aged 20-64 years) who were living in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan during the period 2010- 2011. We obtained anthropometric data and information on life style characteristics including dietary intake and current medical histories of allergic diseases using a structural self-administered questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the associations of soy products and isoflavones with allergic diseases after controlling for age, family history of allergic diseases, smoking, drinking, physical activity, energy intake, BMI and dietary factors. Intake of soy products showed significant inverse dose-response relationships with allergic rhinitis. The third quartile for soy products had an adjusted OR of 0.56 (95% CI: 0.35-0.91) compared to the reference group (first quartile), though intake of soy products showed no dose-response relationship with atopic dermatitis. Intake of soy isoflavones showed a significant inverse dose-response relationship with atopic dermatitis, though the association between intake of soy isoflavones and atopic dermatitis was U-shaped after adjustments for potential confounders. On the other hand, the associations between intake of soy isoflavones and other allergic diseases were not significant. The results indicate that higher intake of soy products is associated with reduced risk of allergic rhinitis in Japanese workers. Furthermore, moderate intake amounts of soy products and soy isoflavones are associated with inverse risk of atopic dermatitis.

Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition


Associations between intake of dietary fermented soy food and concentrations of inflammatory markers: a cross-sectional study in Japanese workers

Epidemiological investigations have shown that consumption of soybeans or soy foods reduces the risk of the development of cardiovascular disease, cancer and osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between different soy foods and inflammatory markers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-18, in Japanese workers. The cross-sectional study included 1,426 Japanese workers (1,053 men and 373 women) aged 20 to 64 years. Intake of 12 soy foods was estimated by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Associations of total soy foods, fermented soy food, non-fermented soy food, soy isoflavone with hs-CRP, IL-6, and IL-18 levels were examined by general linear model regression analysis. We found that total fermented soy food intake was inversely associated with multivariable-adjusted geometric concentration of IL-6 in men (Q1:1.03 pg/mL, Q5:0.94 pg /mL;P for trend = 0.031). Furthermore, it was shown that IL-6 concentrations were inversely associated with miso intake (β = -0.068;p = 0.034) and soy sauce intake in men (β = -0.074;p = 0.018). This study suggests that intake of total fermented soy food, miso and soy sauce be associated with IL-6 concentrations in Japanese men. J. Med. Invest. 65:74-80, February, 2018.


Association between Dietary Patterns and Serum Adiponectin: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Japanese Population

The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between dietary pattern, adiponectin and insulin resistance. The study population consisted of 612 men and women aged 35-69 years old who had participated in the baseline survey of Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort (J-MICC) Study in Tokushima Prefecture. Diets and lifestyle related variables were assessed by questionnaires. Multiple regression analyses were used to analyse the relations between dietary patterns and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin. For further analysis, path analysis was used to test the hypothesised model of association between dietary pattern, serum adiponectin and insulin resistance. The result showed that higher score of bread and dairy pattern was directly associated with increased serum level of adiponectin in women, which was inversely related to homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). In conclusion, higher consumption of bread and dairy products, and low intake of rice may be associated with increased serum adiponectin in women.

International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition


The effect of modifiable healthy practices on higher-level functional capacity decline among Japanese community dwellers.

This study aimed to clarify the effects of the accumulation of 8 modifiable practices related to health, including smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, sleeping hours, body mass index, dietary diversity, (life worth living), and health checkup status, on higher-level functional capacity decline among Japanese community dwellers. Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences - Longitudinal Study of Aging. Subjects comprised 1269 men and women aged 40 to 79 years at baseline (1997-2000) who participated in a follow-up postal survey (2013). Higher-level functional capacity was measured using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (total score and 3 subscales: instrumental self-maintenance, intellectual activity, and social role). The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for a decline in higher-level functional capacity in the follow-up study according to the total number of healthy practices were analyzed using the lowest category as a reference. Multivariate adjusted ORs (95% CIs) for the total score of higher-level functional capacity, which declined according to the total number of healthy practices (0-4, 5-6, 7-8 groups) were 1.00 (reference), 0.63 (0.44-0.92), and 0.54 (0.31-0.94). For the score of social role decline, multivariate adjusted ORs (95% CIs) were 1.00 (reference), 0.62 (0.40-0.97), and 0.46 (0.23-0.90), respectively (P for trend = 0.04). Having more modifiable healthy practices, especially in social roles, may protect against a decline in higher-level functional capacity among middle-aged and elderly community dwellers in Japan.


Brazilian Green Propolis Promotes Weight Loss and Reduces Fat Accumulation in C57BL/6 Mice Fed A High-Fat Diet

Propolis is a bee product with various biological properties. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet and treated with propolis for 14 weeks. Body weight in mice treated with 2% propolis was less than that in control mice from 3 weeks after the start of treatment until 14 weeks except for the 7th week. Mice treated with propolis showed significantly lower epididymal fat weight and subcutaneous fat weight. Infiltration of epididymal fat by macrophages and T cells was reduced in the propolis group. Supplementation of propolis increased feces weight and fat content in feces, suggesting that mechanisms of weight reduction by propolis partly include a laxative effect and inhibition of fat absorption.


Extracts of citrus Sudachi peel attenuate body weight gain in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet

Citrus Sudachi is the special local product of Tokushima Prefecture, and over 98% of Sudachi consumed in Japan every year is produced in Tokushima Prefecture. In this study, we evaluated the function of sudachi peel extract (SPE) using an animal model of obesity. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet containing 1% SPE powder. Treatment with SPE significantly decreased body weight compared to that of mice fed a high-fat diet. A significant difference in body weight was observed between the control and SPE groups from 7 weeks after the start of the experiment, the significant difference continued until the end of the 14-week experiment. Reduction of blood glucose levels following insulin administration in SPE-treated mice was grater than that in control mice. Determination of mRNA expression in adipose tissue showed that the expression level of TNF-α in the SPE group was significantly decreased compared to that on the control group. These results suggest that SPE potentially has the ability to attenuate body weight gain. J. Med. Invest. 64: 20-23, February, 2017.

The Journal of Medical Investigation : JMI


Dietary diversity decreases the risk of cognitive decline among Japanese older adults

To clarify the effectiveness of dietary diversity, calculated by dietary records, on cognitive decline. Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences - Longitudinal Study of Aging. Participants comprised 298 men and 272 women aged 60-81 years at baseline (second wave) who participated in the follow-up study (third to seventh wave) at least once. Cognitive function was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination in all study waves. Dietary diversity was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity based on a 3-day dietary record in the second wave. Cumulative data among participants with a Mini-Mental State Examination score >27 in the second wave were analyzed using a generalized estimating equation. Multivariate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for Mini-Mental State Examination scores ≤27 in each study wave according to a 1 standard deviation (increase), or quartiles of the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity at baseline, were adjusted for sex, age, follow-up time, baseline Mini-Mental State Examination score, education, body mass index, annual household income, current smoking status, energy intake and disease history. Multivariate adjusted odds ratio for a decline in Mini-Mental State Examination score was 0.79 (95% CI 0.70-0.89; P < 0.001) with a 1 SD increase in dietary diversity score, or 1.00 (reference), 0.99 (95% CI 0.70-1.43), 0.68 (95% CI 0.46-0.99) and 0.56 (95% CI 0.38-0.83) according to the lowest through highest quartiles of dietary diversity score, respectively (trend P = 0.001). Daily intake of various kinds of food might be a protective factor against cognitive decline in community-dwelling Japanese older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 937-944.


Age-related changes in energy intake and weight in community-dwelling middle-aged and elderly Japanese

This study attempts to describe trends in energy intake and weight change over 12 years according to age at first participation in the study. Prospective cohort study. The National Institute for Longevity Sciences - Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS-LSA), a community-based study. Participants included 922 men and 879 women who participated in the first study-wave (age 40-79 years) and also participated in at least one study-wave from the second to seventh study-wave. Each study-wave was conducted biennially. For individuals, the entire follow-up period was 12 years. Energy intake was calculated from 3-day dietary records with photographs. Weight and height were measured under a fasting state. To estimate linear changes in energy intake and weight over 12 years according to age at first study-wave, we used the mixed-effects model. Mean (SD) follow-up time and number of study-wave visits were 9.5 (3.7) years and 5.4 (1.8) times, respectively. The fixed effect of the interaction of age and time in energy intake and weight was statistically or marginally statistically significant both in men (p<0.01) and in women (p<0.06). In men, when energy intake was estimated according to age, the rate of decrease in energy intake increased from -6.8 to -33.8 kcal/year for ages 40-79 years. In women, the rate of decrease in energy intake slightly increased in older age groups (-9.1 to -16.7 kcal/year for ages 40-79 years). Weight increased in males in their 40s (0.07 kg/year from age 40) and started to decline by age 53. In women, weight started to decline around age 47 (-0.04 kg/year). Twelve-year longitudinal data showed energy intake declined both in men and women in their 40s, and the rate of decrease increased in older males. Weight started to decline in men in their mid-50s and women in their late 40s. Further studies that focus on energy intake and weight reduction are needed to prevent weight loss or underweight in an increasingly aging society.

The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging


Dietary diversity and 14-year decline in higher-level functional capacity among middle-aged and elderly Japanese.

This study aimed to clarify the effects of dietary diversity on a decline in higher-level functional capacity among middle-aged and elderly subjects in Japan. Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences - Longitudinal Study of Aging. Subjects comprised 1317 men and women aged 40 to 79 at baseline (1997-2000) who participated in a follow-up postal survey (2013). Higher-level functional capacity was measured using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology index of competence (total score and 3 subscales). Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-d dietary record, and dietary diversity was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity (QUANTIDD). The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for a decline in higher-level functional capacity in the follow-up study according to quartiles of QUANTIDD at baseline were estimated, controlling for age, sex, higher-level functional capacity scores at baseline, body mass index, alcohol consumption, physical activity, depressive score, household income, education, smoking, and disease history. A total of 214 (16%), 145 (11%), 70 (5%), and 136 (10%) subjects showed a decline in total score for higher-level functional capacity (≥2), instrumental self-maintenance (≥1), intellectual activity (≥2), and social role (≥2), respectively. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for the score for intellectual activity decline according to the lowest through highest quartiles of QUANTIDD were 1.00 (reference), 0.47 (0.23-0.95), 0.44 (0.22-0.90), and 0.41 (0.20-0.83), respectively (P for trend = 0.06). Daily intake of various foods may protect against a decline in intellectual activity among middle-aged and elderly community dwellers in Japan.


Higher gait speed and smaller sway area decrease the risk for decline in higher-level functional capacity among middle-aged and elderly women

This study assessed whether physical function can indicate a risk of decline in higher-level functional capacity. Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging. Subjects comprised 466 men and 495 women aged 40-79 years at baseline (1997-2000), whose total score for the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC) at baseline was 11 and who participated in the follow-up survey. Baseline physical function examination included grip strength, comfortable gait speed, and sway area with eyes open. A decline in higher-level functional capacity was defined as a 2-point decrease in the TMIG-IC score after 14 years. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for decline in the TMIG-IC score for 14 years according to a 1-standard deviation (SD) increase in physical function measurements at baseline were estimated. Subjects with decreased TMIG-IC scores included 78 (16.7%) men and 80 (16.2%) women. In women, the multivariate-adjusted OR (95% CI) for a TMIG-IC score decrease with a 1-SD increase in comfortable gait speed was 0.68 (0.50-0.92; p=0.013), and that with a 1-SD increase in sway area with eyes open was 1.49 (1.17-1.90; p=0.001). Grip strength was not associated with TMIG-IC score decline. None of the physical performance measures affected TMIG-IC score declines in men. These results suggest that gait speed decreases and sway area increases might predict a risk of decline in higher-level functional capacity among middle-aged and elderly women.


Inverse association between soy food consumption and insulin resistance in Japanese adults

The purpose of the present study was to examine the association between soya food consumption and insulin resistance using baseline data of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort (J-MICC) Study in Tokushima, Japan. This cross-sectional study included 1274 subjects, aged 34-70 years at baseline, living in Tokushima Prefecture between 2008 and 2013. Fasting blood samples were collected and information on lifestyle characteristics including soya food intake and medical history were obtained using a structured self-administered questionnaire. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was measured and those with HOMA-IR ≥ 2.5 were defined as having insulin resistance. Multiple logistic regression models were used to analyse the association between soya product intake and the prevalence of insulin resistance. Rural communities located in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, between 2008 and 2013. A total of 1148 adults (565 men and 583 women), aged 34-70 years. The frequency of intake of miso soup, total non-fried soya products and total soya products showed significant inverse dose-response relationships with insulin resistance, after adjustments for potential confounders. When soya product intake was calculated as soya protein and isoflavone, the odds ratios of insulin resistance decreased significantly as the estimated intake of soya protein increased. Furthermore, significant inverse dose-response relationships were observed for total non-fried soya products and total soya products, after adjustment for total vegetable or total fibre consumption. The present results indicate that the intake of soya products and non-fried soya products is associated with reduced insulin resistance in the Japanese population.


Dietary ribonucleic Acid suppresses inflammation of adipose tissue and improves glucose intolerance that is mediated by immune cells in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet.

Recent evidence suggests that immune cells play an important role in differentiation of inflammatory macrophages in adipose tissue, which contributes to systemic chronic inflammation. Dietary ribonucleic acid (RNA) has been shown to modulate immune function. We hypothesized that RNA affects immune cell function in adipose tissue and then improves inflammatory response in adipose tissue. C57/BL6 mice and recombination activating gene-1 (RAG-1) knockout mice on a C57BL/6 mice background were fed a high-fat diet containing 1% RNA for 12 wk. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed. Supplementation of dietary RNA in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet resulted in a smaller area under the curve (AUC) after oral glucose administration than that for control mice. The mRNA expression levels of inflammation-related cytokines in adipose tissue and serum interleukin-6 levels were reduced by dietary RNA supplementation. Interestingly, reduction of the AUC value by RNA supplementation was abolished in T and B cell-deficient RAG-1 knockout mice. These results indicate that RNA improves inflammation in adipose tissue and reduces the AUC value following oral glucose administration in a T and B cell-dependent manner.

Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology


Vitamin A Deficiency Impairs Induction of Oral Tolerance in Mice.

Oral tolerance is a phenomenon of induction of systemic unresponsiveness to antigens ingested by the oral route and loss of immune response. Studies have shown the importance of vitamin A in oral tolerance in vitro but not in an in vivo experimental model. Therefore, we carried out experiments to determine how vitamin A deficiency affects tolerance induction and the ability of mesenteric lymph node (MLN) CD11c(+) cells to induce regulatory T cells (Tregs). Immunological tolerance was induced by oral ovalbumin (OVA) administration in vitamin A-sufficient mice. OVA-specific antibody and cytokine production were significantly reduced. On the other hand, in vitamin A-deficient mice, both OVA-specific antibody and cytokine production were not suppressed by oral OVA administration. Regarding induction of Tregs, the conversion rate of Foxp3(+) cells from naïve CD4(+) cell by CD11c(+) cells was decreased in vitamin A-deficient mice. Our study indicates that vitamin A deficiency causes the breakdown of oral tolerance in vivo.


Family history of stroke is potentially associated with arterial stiffness in the Japanese population.

Studies on the association between family history of cardiovascular disease and arterial stiffness are rare. This study evaluated the possible relationship between family history of cardiovascular disease and arterial stiffness in the Japanese population, by measuring brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV). A total of 1004 eligible subjects (664 men and 340 women) aged 35-69 years, who were enrolled in the baseline survey of a cohort study in Tokushima Prefecture (Japan) and who underwent ba-PWV measurement, were analysed. Information about their lifestyle characteristics and first-degree family histories of ischaemic heart disease (i.e. myocardial infarction or angina pectoris), stroke or hypertension were obtained from a structural self-administered questionnaire. Subjects of both sexes with a family history of stroke showed significantly higher multivariable-adjusted means of ba-PWV than those without that trait (P values were 0.001 in men and 0.002 in women), while those with a family history of ischaemic heart disease did not. Subjects of both sexes with a family history of hypertension showed significantly higher age-adjusted means of ba-PWV than those without that trait, although these differences disappeared after further adjusting for blood pressure or multivariable covariates. When family histories of these diseases were inserted simultaneously into the same model, these results did not alter substantially. A family history of stroke might be associated with increased arterial stiffness, independent of other known atherosclerotic risk factors, including hypertensive elements, in both sexes in the Japanese population.


Association between dietary calcium intake and arterial stiffness according to dietary vitamin D intake in men.

Studies on the associations of dietary Ca and vitamin D intakes with arterial stiffness are scarce. In the present study, these associations were evaluated in Japanese men. Data from a total of 535 eligible men, aged 35-69 years, who participated in the baseline survey of a cohort study in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, and underwent brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) measurements were analysed. ba-PWV is a measure of arterial stiffness and is recognised as a marker of atherosclerotic vascular damage. Information regarding the cohort's lifestyle characteristics including dietary behaviour over the past year was obtained from a structured self-administered questionnaire. Dietary Ca and vitamin D intakes were adjusted for total energy intake using the residual method and divided into quartiles; the highest quartile was used as the reference. General linear models were used to evaluate the associations between dietary Ca and vitamin D intakes and ba-PWV values adjusted for probable covariates. The association between dietary Ca intake and ba-PWV was further evaluated using similar general linear models stratified by dietary vitamin D intake (median or below/above median). Dietary Ca intake was found to be significantly inversely associated with ba-PWV after adjusting for probable covariates (P for trend = 0·020). However, no such association was observed between dietary vitamin D intake and ba-PWV. The inverse association between dietary Ca intake and ba-PWV was striking in subjects with higher dietary vitamin D intake. However, no association was found in subjects with lower dietary vitamin D intake. These results indicate that adequate dietary Ca and vitamin D intakes may be protective against the development of arterial stiffness in Japanese men.


Academic Degrees and Teacher Competency Requirements in Dietitian and National Registered Dietitian Training Facilities

管理栄養士・栄養士養成施設における教員の学位取得状況および教員に求められる知識や技能等に関する調査

Objective: To obtain personnel information of teaching staff in universities, colleges, and vocational schools with dietitian and/or registered dietitian programs, including number of teaching staff with a dietitian or registered dietitian license and the distribution of academic degrees. Competencies (e.g., education, research administration) required of staff for teaching the curriculum were also evaluated.Methods: A mail survey was conducted in February and March 2013 inquiring on number of teaching staff, number of teaching staff with a dietitian license or who were registered dietitians, and age and position of staff. In addition, staff competencies were evaluated for their importance in dietitian and registered dietitian training facilities.Results: The response rate was 66.1% (78 schools) and 68.5% (102 schools) for dietitian and registered dietitian training facilities, respectively. Most teachers were aged 30~49 in both dietitian and registered dietitian training facilities. In registered dietitian training facilities, 40% of teachers over age 30 had their Ph.D., and 39.5%, 75.9%, and 66.5% aged 20~29, 30~49, and 50~65 had a master's and/or doctoral degree, respectively. In dietitian training facilities, about 20% of teachers over age 30 had a Ph.D., and 28.4%, 47.4%, and 44.0% aged 20~29, 30~49, and 50~65 had a master's and/or doctoral degree, respectively. "Education" was considered the most important competency.Conclusion: We obtained basic information concerning age and education characteristics of teachers in dietitian and national registered dietitian training schools. Education was identified by facility directors as the most important competency.

【目的】管理栄養士および栄養士養成施設において管理栄養士・栄養士免許を有する教員の数，教員の学位取得状況，各養成施設において教員に求められる知識や技能等を明らかにする．【方法】教員の学位取得状況，教員に求められる知識や技能および担当科目等の基礎情報に関する質問用紙を作成し，2013年2∼3月に全国の管理栄養士および栄養士養成施設に郵送した．【結果】回答が得られた施設は，管理栄養士養成施設78校(回答率66.1%)，栄養士養成施設102校であった(回答率68.5%)．教員の年齢区分では管理栄養士および栄養士養成施設共に30∼49歳が最も高かった．管理栄養士養成施設で管理栄養士免許を有する教員で博士の学位を有する者の割合は年齢層が上昇するごとに増え30歳以上では約4割程度であった．管理栄養士養成施設において管理栄養士免許保有教員のうち修士または博士の学位を有するものは，20∼29歳42.5%，30∼49歳75.7%，50∼65歳66.5%であった．栄養士養成施設において管理栄養士免許を有する教員で博士の学位を有するものの割合は30歳以上で約2割程度であった．栄養士養成校において管理栄養士免許保有教員のうち修士および博士の学位を有するものは，20∼29歳28.4%，30∼49歳47.4%，50∼65歳42.0%であった．養成施設が教員に求める知識や技能に関しては，「教育」が最も高く，エフォートに対する割合としては50∼59%と回答する施設が最も多かった．【結論】管理栄養士および栄養士養成施設における管理栄養士または栄養士免許を有する教員の年齢構成，学位取得状況等の基本情報が得られた．また養成施設が教員に対して求める知識や技能として最も高いのは「教育」であった．

The Japanese Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics


Cereal intake increases and dairy products decrease risk of cognitive decline among elderly female Japanese.

The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease


A family history of diabetes is not associated with arterial stiffness in non-diabetic Japanese population


Association between blood levels of PCDDs/PCDFs/dioxin-like PCBs and history of allergic and other diseases in the Japanese population.

Previous studies reported that exposure to dioxins was associated with an increased risk of various diseases in general populations. The aim of this study was to examine the association between levels of dioxins in blood and allergic and other diseases. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 1,063 men and 1,201 women (aged 15-76 years), who were living throughout Japan and not occupationally exposed to dioxins, during 2002-2010. In fasting blood samples, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) were analyzed by isotope dilution high-resolution gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. We obtained information on life style and self-reported history of diseases using a questionnaire. Blood pressure, blood levels of hemoglobin A1c, and serum lipids were also measured. Multiple logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between dioxin levels in blood and various diseases. Toxic equivalents of PCDDs/PCDFs and total dioxins showed significant inverse dose-response relationships with atopic dermatitis, after adjustments for potential confounders. The highest quartile for total dioxins had an adjusted odds ratio of 0.26 (95 % confidence interval 0.08-0.70) compared to the reference group (first quartile). The odds ratios for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, gout in men, and gynecologic diseases in women significantly increased with increasing toxic equivalents of PCDDs/PCDFs, DL-PCBs, and total dioxins in blood. The present findings suggest that background exposure to dioxins was associated with reduced risk of atopic dermatitis. The results also support the idea that low-level exposure to dioxins is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health


Abundant daily non-sedentary activity is associated with reduced prevalence of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance.

Background: Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) has recently drawn attention because of its potential to prevent weight gain. Aim: This study evaluated the relationships between the duration of daily non-sedentary activities and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in the Japanese population. Material/Subjects and Methods: A total of 518 eligible subjects (380 men and 138 women) who attended the Tokushima Prefectural General Health Checkup Center and participated in the baseline survey of a cohort study conducted in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan were analyzed. Information about lifestyle characteristics including leisure-time exercise and daily non-exercise activities was obtained from a questionnaire. Logistic and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between the duration of daily non-exercise non-sedentary activities (beyond sitting) and prevalence of metabolic syndrome (and its components) and insulin resistance. Results: Subjects with longer duration of daily non-sedentary activities had significantly lower adjusted odds ratios for metabolic syndrome (P for trend = 0.024), abdominal obesity (P for trend = 0.023), and low HDL-cholesterol levels (P for trend = 0.002), after adjustment for sex, age, and other probable covariates including leisure-time exercise. Longer duration of daily non-sedentary activities was further associated with lower Homeostasis Model of Assessment-Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) values (P for trend = 0.009). Conclusions: Our results suggest that abundant daily non-sedentary activity might be associated with a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome, especially for the components of central obesity and low HDL-cholesterol levels, and with a lower prevalence of insulin resistance, independent of leisure-time exercise.

Journal of Endocrinological Investigation


Consumption of coffee, not green tea, is inversely associated with arterial stiffness in Japanese men.

Background/Objectives:Studies on the associations between coffee and green tea consumption and arterial stiffness are rare. This study evaluated the possible relationships between coffee and green tea consumption and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) values in Japanese men.Subjects/Methods:In total, 540 eligible men who enrolled in the baseline survey of a cohort study in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, and who underwent ba-PWV measurement were analyzed. Information about lifestyle characteristics including coffee and green tea intake were obtained from a structural self-administered questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between coffee and green tea consumption and ba-PWV.Results:Subjects with greater coffee consumption were younger and showed higher proportions of current smoking and alcohol consumption. Subjects with greater green tea consumption were older and showed lower proportions of current smoking and alcohol consumption. Greater coffee consumption was significantly inversely associated with ba-PWV after the adjustment for probable covariates, including serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P for trend =0.031). After additional adjustment for serum triglycerides, this inverse association persisted, but was somewhat attenuated (P for trend =0.050). In contrast, green tea consumption was not associated with ba-PWV.Conclusions:Coffee consumption was inversely associated with arterial stiffness independent of known atherosclerotic risk factors, and this association was partly mediated by reduced circulating triglycerides. Further prospective or interventional studies are needed to confirm the causal association.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition advance online publication, 17 July 2013; doi:10.1038/ejcn.2013.132.


Consumption of seafood, serum liver enzymes, and blood levels of PFOS and PFOA in the Japanese population.

Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) have been shown to accumulate in the human body. The purpose of the present study was to examine the factors associated with the blood levels of PFOS and PFOA. A cross-sectional study was performed on 307 men and 301 women (aged 16-76 years) living in 15 prefectures in Japan. Blood levels of PFOS and PFOA were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Hepatic enzymes (-GTP, GOT, and GPT) and -3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (DHA and EPA) levels in serum were also measured. Associations between the levels of PFOS and PFOA in blood and the intake frequency of 41 kinds of dishes, foods and beverages and the serum levels of liver enzymes and -3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were examined using rank correlations. Frequency of intake of boiled fish in broth, sliced raw fish and coastal fish showed significant positive correlations with PFOS concentrations in blood after adjustments for potential confounders. Serum levels of GOT, GPT, DHA and EPA showed significant positive correlations with PFOS and PFOA in blood. There was also a significant regional difference in the blood levels of PFOS and 2013PFOA, with medians being highest in the Tokai/Hokuriku/Kinki region. These findings suggest that the concentrations of PFOS in blood were mainly associated with fish consumption and that the levels of PFOS and PFOA were associated with the serum levels of liver enzymes in Japanese populations. Further investigations are required to clarify the reason for the regional differences in blood levels of PFOS and PFOA in Japan.


栄養と免疫機能—非必須栄養素，低栄養状態，過栄養状態と免疫—

It is known that nutritional state crucially affects immune function. In recent years, the contributionof the diet to the optimal working of the immune system has become wildly appreciatedand the influence of different dietary components on specific aspects of immune function has beenextensively studied. Soy isoflavone genistein suppresses antigen-specific immune response inBALB/c mice and suppresses development of atopic-like dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. In other soyisoflavone equol enhances antigen-specific IgE production via IL-13-mediated pathway. Further,equol exacerbates colitis of dextran sulfate sodium-treated mice. Therefore, immune stimulatoryeffects are strikingly different among soy isoflavones. In this reviews, in addition of the isoflavone,we overview the effects of dietary nucleic acid and protein-deficiency on antigen-specific immuneresponses. Furthermore, we present hot topics researches in the field of obesity and T cellfunction.


The relationships between dietary intake and women's health based on epidemiological studies

疫学研究から考える食と女性の健康


Effects of Practical Training in Food Service Management for University Students Aiming to Become Registered Dietitians : Impact on the Competency of Registered Dietitians

管理栄養士を目指す学生に対する給食経営管理実習による実習効果 : 管理栄養士のコンピテンシーへ及ぼす影響

Journal of University Education Research


日本人勤労者の大豆製品摂取行動がメタボリック症候群発症に与える影響の検証

日本人勤労者の大豆製品摂取行動がメタボリック症候群発症に与える影響の検証