The emerging role of phosphorus in human health

Antioxidant capacity, biochemical composition, and mineral composition of leaves in two apple species (Malus domestica Borkh. and M. kirghisorum Al. Fed. & Fed.)

BACKGROUND

Apple leaves are a rich source of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, and essential minerals, which exhibit significant antioxidant and therapeutic properties. This study focuses on comparing the biochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and mineral contents of Malus domestica Borkh. cultivars and M. kirghisorum Al. Fed. & Fed. genotypes. The goal is to identify potential health-promoting compounds and establish a basis for utilizing apple leaves as a sustainable resource in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

RESULTS

The study revealed significant biochemical and nutritional variation among the genotypes. Total antioxidant capacity ranged from 36.00 in 'A12' to 59.50% in 'Starking Delicious'. Total phenolic content varied between 70.42 in 'A28' and 147.45 mg GAE/100 g in 'Granny Smith', while total flavonoid content ranged from 15.43 in 'A28' to 38.66 mg QE/100 g in 'A16', demonstrating considerable variability in bioactive compound composition. Correlation matrix analysis identified several significant relationships. Total phenolics and total flavonoids showed a positive correlation (r = 0.52**), while calcium strongly correlated with magnesium (r = 0.79**), potassium (r = 0.52**), and phosphorus (r = 0.52**), underscoring their physiological interconnections. Multiple regression analysis clarified key traits. Total phenolic content was positively influenced by total flavonoids (β = 0.52, p < 0.00). Calcium was strongly associated with magnesium (β = 0.52, p < 0.00) and sodium (β = 0.46, p < 0.00), reflecting their synergistic roles in cellular and metabolic functions. Principal component analysis revealed that the first three components explained 57.80% of the total variation. PC1 (30.56% variance) was predominantly associated with calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. PC2 (14.16%) highlighted the relationship between manganese and total antioxidant capacity, while PC3 (13.08%) reflected the influence of lead, total phenolics, and total flavonoids. Heat map analysis indicated that the calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities in subgroup A1 suggest that the genotypes may be beneficial for health. Additionally, the accumulation of heavy metals such as lead, nickel, and aluminum in subgroup B1 could pose a health risk; however, the genotypes 'A18', 'A21', 'A21-1', and 'A22' possess the capacity to reduce this accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The results highlight the nutritional and therapeutic potential of apple leaves as a natural source of antioxidants and essential minerals. In particular, the genotypes 'A21-1' and 'A16' stand out due to their high content of bioactive compounds and nutrients, offering promising prospects for further research and applications. These findings contribute to the conservation of wild apple genetic resources and their potential for industrial use.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Not applicable.

Mineral Composition Analysis of Red Horse-Chestnut (Aesculus × Carnea) Seeds and Hydroalcoholic Crude Extract Using ICP OES

This study presents findings on the metal and metalloid composition of red horse-chestnut (Aesculus × carnea, AXC) seeds, determined by the ICP OES technique. Samples were collected from five AXC plants located in Modena (Italy) over four consecutive years (2016-2019). The seeds underwent proximate analysis, which included measurements of moisture content, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, ash, and elemental composition. The analysis revealed consistent values for these parameters throughout the study period. The metal content of the AXC seeds can be categorized into two groups: (i) major components, with concentrations ranging from 1 to <1500 mg/100 g dry basis (d.b.), where K was identified as the most abundant element, and (ii) minor constituents, with concentrations between 1 and <1000 μg/100 g d.b., with Li, Mo, and Ti at the lower concentration limit. Comparative analyses were performed using literature data on AHP and AHH seeds, which, like AXC, belong to the Sapindaceae family and were collected from the same area and period. A hydroalcoholic extract of AXC seeds was prepared annually and characterized, with results compared to a commercial product (AXC_herb). AXC extracts had approximately 30% higher analyte concentrations than AXC_herb, while AXC seeds showed 20-30% higher metal and metalloid levels than AHP and AHH.

Nutrients and Nutraceuticals from Vitis vinifera L. Pomace: Biological Activities, Valorization, and Potential Applications

Grape pomace, also known as wine pomace, is a by-product of winemaking that has traditionally been discarded. However, recent studies have highlighted its rich nutritional and bioactive potential, positioning it as a promising resource for various applications in the functional food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors. This review explores the nutrient and nutraceutical contents of grape pomace, including its high levels of polyphenols, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and melatonin. The biological activities of grape pomace, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects, are also discussed, emphasizing its potential as raw material endowed with multifunctional properties. Additionally, the valorization of grape pomace as a food supplement and for the development of cosmetics is examined, focusing on its incorporation into dietary products and skincare formulations. The growing interest in the sustainable utilization of grape pomace is underscored, highlighting its significant role in promoting human health and contributing to a circular economy.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Selected Non-Nutritive Bioactive Compounds and Their Role in Optimal Nutrition

The contemporary approach to nutrition increasingly considers the role of non-nutritive bioactive compounds in modulating the immune system and maintaining health. This article provides up-to-date insight into the immunomodulatory effects of selected bioactive compounds, including micro- and macronutrients, vitamins, as well as other health-promoting substances, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics (including butyric acid and sodium butyrate), coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, and plant-derived components such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, polyacetylenes, saponins, carotenoids, and terpenoids. Micro- and macronutrients, such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, and iron, play a pivotal role in regulating the immune response and protecting against oxidative stress. Vitamins, especially vitamins C, D, E, and B, are vital for the optimal functioning of the immune system as they facilitate the production of cytokines, the differentiation of immunological cells, and the neutralization of free radicals, among other functions. Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit strong anti-inflammatory effects and enhance immune cell function. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics modulate the intestinal microbiota, thereby promoting the integrity of the intestinal barrier and communication between the microbiota and the immune system. Coenzyme Q10, renowned for its antioxidant attributes, participates in the protection of cells from oxidative stress and promotes energy processes essential for immune function. Sodium butyrate and lipoic acid exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and facilitate the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, which is crucial for the maintenance of immune homeostasis. This article emphasizes the necessity of an integrative approach to optimal nutrition that considers not only nutritional but also non-nutritional bioactive compounds to provide adequate support for immune function. Without them, the immune system will never function properly, because it has been adapted to this in the course of evolution. The data presented in this article may serve as a foundation for further research into the potential applications of bioactive components in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with immune dysfunction.

Augmenting phyto-chemical and phyto-mineral profiling of moringa leaf extract: A contrastive study of solid-liquid extraction methodologies

The global food system is plagued by legitimacy and stability issues due to climate and ecosystem disruptions, contributing to widespread malnutrition. A significant portion of the global population experiences undernourishment, overweight, and micronutrient deficiencies from unhealthy diets. Addressing these challenges necessitates regular consumption of essential nutrients from plant sources. Among various crops, Moringa oleifera leaves are highly nutritious, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and medicinal properties. Whence research was conducted to inquire the proximate phytochemical composition and extraction efficiency of moringa leaf extracts across four extraction methods: maceration (E1), Soxhlet (E2), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) (E3), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) (E4) using 70 % hydro-ethanolic solvent. The study detected the presence of phytocompounds and phytonutrients at higher levels in UAE and MAE extracts. Recovery yield was highest for UAE (21.81 ± 0.32 %) than conventional extraction methods (6.24 ± 0.08 %). Both advanced extraction methods resulted in higher TPC (148.86 ± 1.92 mg GAE/g and 137.65 ± 4.49 mg GAE/g, respectively) and TFC (23.18 ± 0.44 mgQE/g and 22.12 ± 0.61 mg QE/g, respectively). Protein and ascorbic acid contents followed a similar trend, with UAE achieving 148.66 ± 3.74 mg/ml and 620.25 ± 1.42 mg/100g, respectively. Antioxidant activity measured by DPPH assay was highest in UAE (86.25 ± 1.58 %) along with the lowest IC50 values (11.62 ± 1.58 μg/ml) in UAE. Furthermore, ICP-OES analysis revealed higher concentrations of essential phyto-minerals in moringa leaf extracts. Moreover, SEM analysis revealed significant morphological disruptions in the leaf samples, correlating with higher phytomolecules recovery. The outcome of the research is that novel extraction methods significantly enhanced the extraction efficiency and quality of bioactive compounds from moringa leaves, suggesting their potential in the development of nutraceutical and biofortified food products to expunge malnutrition.

Production, purification and characterization of phytase from Pichia kudriavevii FSMP-Y17and its application in layers feed

INTRODUCTION

Phytase, recognized for its ability to enhance the nutritional value of phytate-rich foods, has has gained significant prominence. The production of this enzyme has been significantly boosted while preserving economic efficiency by utilizing natural substrates and optimizing essential factors. This study focuses on optimizing phytase production through solid-state fermentation and evaluating its effectiveness in enhancing nutrient utilization in chicken diets.

OBJECTIVE

The objective is to optimize phytase production via solid-state fermentation, characterize purified phytase properties, and assess its impact on nutrient utilization in chicken diets. Through these objectives, we aim to deepen understanding of phytase's role in poultry nutrition and contribute to more efficient feed formulations for improved agricultural outcomes.

METHODOLOGY

We utilized solid-state fermentation with Pichia kudriavzevii FSMP-Y17 yeast on orange peel substrate, optimizing variables like temperature, pH, incubation time, and supplementing with glucose and ammonium sulfate. Following fermentation, we purified the phytase enzyme using standard techniques, characterizing its properties, including molecular weight, optimal temperature and pH, substrate affinity, and kinetic parameters.

RESULTS

The optimized conditions yielded a remarkable phytase yield of 7.0 U/gds. Following purification, the enzyme exhibited a molecular weight of 64 kDa and displayed optimal activity at 55 °C and pH 5.5, with kinetic parameters (Km = 3.39 × 10-3 M and a Vmax of 7.092 mM/min) indicating efficient substrate affinity.

CONCLUSION

The addition of purified phytase to chicken diets resulted in significant improvements in nutrient utilization and overall performance, including increased feed intake, improved feed conversion ratio, enhanced bird growth, better phosphorus retention, and improved egg production and quality. By addressing challenges associated with phytate-rich diets, such as reduced nutrient availability and environmental pollution, phytase utilization promotes animal welfare and sustainability in poultry production.

The elemental variance between the "rice" and "non-rice" portions of Maifanitum and its health risk assessment

BACKGROUND

Maifanitum, a mineral used in Chinese medicine, was first documented during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). Historical records suggest its multifaceted therapeutic properties, including detoxification and stasis resolution, necrosis removal and tissue regeneration, diuretic and calculi dissolution and prolonging life. The concentration of elements in Maifanitum may vary depending on its origin, different parts, which can affect its effectiveness in different fields of applications. Therefore, the analysis of elements in Maifanitum and the subsequent health risk assessment have been conducted. This provides an important basis for the quality control and application safety of Maifanitum.

METHOD

The analytical techniques employed in this study are inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), utilized for the quantitative assessment of 60 elements (Refer to Appendix 1) within Maifanitum samples. Based on the test results, chemometric methods are employed to evaluate the characteristics and differences in elemental concentration from different sources and locations. Additionally, a preliminary health risk assessment is conducted for Maifanitum from different origins and various parts.

RESULTS

We have established a fingerprint of the elements within Maifanitum, demonstrating a commendable level of similarity. The findings from hierarchical cluster analysis（HCA） corroborated with those from principal component analysis (PCA), collectively unveiling a systematic profile of elemental disparities between Maifanitum samples of diverse origins and applications. It also revealed that there are differences in the concentration of Al, Ga, Be, Hf, Na, Sn, Ti, Zr, Gd, Tb, Sr, Pb, Ce, Ba and other elements in different parts of Maifanitum. While Cd, As, and Cu levels in all samples were within the permissible limits as defined by the Chinese Pharmacopeia, Pb concentrations in the majority of samples were found to surpass these standards, albeit slightly in the ''non-rice'' fraction. The assessment of both beneficial and deleterious elements indicates that the ''non-rice'' fraction of Maifanitum possesses superior quality attributes. Moreover, the overall concentration of rare earth elements in Maifanitum is substantially below the established lower threshold for daily human consumption, with no immediate evidence suggesting any adverse health risks.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a basis for the quality control and safety evaluation of Maifanitum in clinical use.

Visualization of Nucleic Acids in Microand Nanometer-Scale Biological Objects Using Analytical Electron Microscopy

Analytical electron microscopy techniques, including energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), are employed in materials science and biology to visualize and chemically map diverse elements. This review presents cases of successful identification of nucleic acids in cells and in DNA- and RNA-containing viruses that use the chemical element phosphorus as a marker.

Plant-derived biostimulant as priming agents enhanced antioxidant and nutritive properties in brassicaceous microgreens

BACKGROUND

Microgreens constitute dietary sources of bioactive compounds imparting numerous health benefits and enhancing sensory experience. They can be successfully cultivated in soilless systems where biostimulants can be easily integrated as seed-priming and post-germination agents improving the sustainability of a crop's final production. Compared to an untreated control, three priming agents (a commercial legume-derived protein hydrolysate (A250), a novel protein hydrolysate derived from peanut biomass (H250) and hydropriming (H2O)) were applied to Komatsuna and Mibuna seeds grown as microgreens and compared for their effects on yield parameters, mineral composition, ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacity, carotenoid concentration and phenolic compounds.

RESULTS

Significant effects of the main experimental factors and their interactions were identified on antioxidant capacity. Compared to the control and hydropriming, the highest ABTS and FRAP values were observed in Mibuna with the A250 and H250 treatments, respectively. Additionally, the H250 treatment increased the total concentrations of phenolic acid derivatives and flavonoid derivatives in Mibuna and Komatsuna, in tune with the levels of total flavonoids. Concerning mineral composition, the highest concentrations in both species were those of phosphorus and nitrate.

CONCLUSION

These results highlight the potential of select plant-based biostimulants as priming agents to enhance the antioxidant capacity, nutrient content and bioactive compound content, thus further increasing their functional and nutritive quality. In the light of this, the possibility of reducing the application of fertilizers by promoting a green transition for the intensive production of microgreens could subsequently be evaluated. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Spontaneous Tumor Regression and Reversion: Insights and Associations with Reduced Dietary Phosphate

Tumors that spontaneously shrink from unknown causes in tumor regression, and that return to normal cells in tumor reversion, are phenomena with the potential to contribute new knowledge and novel therapies for cancer patient survival. Tumorigenesis is associated with dysregulated phosphate metabolism and an increased transport of phosphate into tumor cells, potentially mediated by phosphate overload from excessive dietary phosphate intake, a significant problem in Western societies. This paper proposes that reduced dietary phosphate overload and reregulated phosphate metabolism may reverse an imbalance of kinases and phosphatases in cell signaling and cellular proliferation, thereby activating autophagy in tumor regression and reversion. Dietary phosphate can also be reduced by sickness-associated anorexia, fasting-mimicking diets, and other diets low in phosphate, all of which have been associated with tumor regression. Tumor reversion has also been demonstrated by transplanting cancer cells into a healthy microenvironment, plausibly associated with normal cellular phosphate concentrations. Evidence also suggests that the sequestration and containment of excessive phosphate within encapsulated tumors is protective in cancer patients, preventing the release of potentially lethal amounts of phosphate into the general circulation. Reducing dietary phosphate overload has the potential to provide a novel, safe, and effective reversion therapy for cancer patients, and further research is warranted.

Exploring the nexus between fatigue, body composition, and muscle strength in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a relatively prevalent condition among hemodialysis patients, resulting in diminished health-related quality of life and decreased survival rates. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between fatigue and body composition in hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 92 patients in total. Fatigue was measured by Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue (FACIT-F) (cut-off ≤ 34). Body composition was measured based on quantitative computed tomography (QCT), parameters including skeletal muscle index (SMI), intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), and bone mineral density (BMD). Handgrip strength was also collected. To explore the relationship between fatigue and body composition parameters, we conducted correlation analyses and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of fatigue was 37% (n = 34), abnormal bone density was 43.4% (n = 40). There was a positive correlation between handgrip strength and FACIT-F score (r = 0.448, p < 0.001). Age (r = - 0.411, p < 0.001), IMAT % (r = - 0.424, p < 0.001), negatively associated with FACIT-F score. Multivariate logistic regression analysis shows that older age, lower serum phosphorus, higher IMAT% are associated with a high risk of fatigue.

CONCLUSION

The significantly increased incidence and degree of fatigue in hemodialysis patients is associated with more intermuscular adipose tissue in paraspinal muscle.

A fermented milk drink with Umbu (Spondias tuberosa) pulp and whey is effective for weight gain and re-nutrition in malnourished: An in vivo study in mice and children

Malnutrition is considered one of the major public health problems worldwide and negatively affects the growth, development and learning of schoolchildren. This study developed and evaluated a fermented milk drink with added Umbu (Spondias tuberosa) pulp in the weight gain and renutrition of mice submitted to malnutrition by calorie restriction, and in malnourished children. The supplementation with this fermented milk drink contributed to an increase of 7.2 % in body weight, and 64.3 % in albumin, and a reduction of 35 % in cholesterol in malnourished mice. In humans, a group of nine malnourished children consumed a daily 200 mL serving of the milk drink (for 60 days). For humans, the fermented milk drink allowed an increase of 16.5 % in body weight, and 20.9 % in body mass index in malnourished children. In conclusion, fermented milk drink has a positive effect on the re-nutrition of malnourished mice and helps to improve the nutritional status of malnourished children.

Boosting nutritional quality of Urtica dioica L. to resist climate change

Introduction

More than ever, traditional agricultural practices need a shift towards more resilient, sustainable, modern and adaptable practices that benefit the health of the planet and people. Today's consumers are constantly on the lookout for novel, highly nutritious foods that have a positive impact on their overall health and well-being. Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) is gaining recognition not only as a popular medicinal plant, but also as a desirable green leafy vegetable rich in phytonutrients. As it is difficult and even expensive to control the quality standards of wild-collected plants, the implementation of sustainable cultivation methods, especially hydroponics, with effective greenhouse management could be a possible solution to obtain a standardized product with high nutritional value. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of four nutrient solutions differing in the content of macro- and micronutrients (especially nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron) and two consecutive cuts on the number of leaves, yield, nitrate and mineral content and the content of specialized metabolites of stinging nettle from a floating hydroponic system.

Methods

Nettle plants were cultivated in a hydroponic system using the floating hydroponics technique. The two-factorial experiment was performed with nutrient solution and consecutive cuts as factors.

Results

The highest yield (2.49 kg/m2) was achieved after the 1st cut with plants cultivated in the nutrient solution with higher nutrient concentration. All tested nutrient solutions resulted in high levels of minerals and bioactive compounds in the plant material (ascorbic acid content of 102.30 mg/100 g fw and total phenolics content of 465.92 mg GAE/100 g fw), confirming floating hydroponics as a sustainable approach for cultivating nettle with enhanced nutritional value and antioxidant potential.

Conclusion

It is important to highlight that the nutrient solution with the lowest nutrient composition yielded the highest concentrations of calcium (5.54%) and iron (180.67 mg/kg dw). Furthermore, it exhibited elevated levels of specific phenolic compounds, including caffeoylmaleic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, naringin, and rutin trihydrate. Notably, this solution demonstrated the lowest nitrate content (4225.33 mg/kg fw) in the plant material. Therefore, it can be recommended as a preferable formulation for hydroponic nettle cultivation.

Vitamin D and cancer

The role of vitamin D in the prevention of chronic diseases including cancer, has received a great deal of attention during the past few decades. The term "Cancer" represents multiple disease states with varying biological complexities. The strongest link between vitamin D and cancer is provided by ecological and studies like observational, in preclinical models. It is apparent that vitamin D exerts diverse biological responses in a tissue specific manner. Moreover, several human factors could affect bioactivity of vitamin D. The mechanism(s) underlying vitamin D initiated anti-carcinogenic effects are diverse and includes changes at the muti-system levels. The oncogenic environment could easily corrupt the traditional role of vitamin D or could ensure resistance to vitamin D mediated responses. Several researchers have identified gaps in our knowledge pertaining to the role of vitamin D in cancer. Further areas are identified to solidify the role of vitamin D in cancer control strategies.

The Effect of Changing Climatic Conditions on the Morphological Traits and Chemical Composition of Almond Kernels

This study evaluates the effect of two contrasting years, in terms of climatic parameters, on kernel morphology and content and on the composition of oil, tocopherols and the 11 macro- and micro-elements in almonds. Low precipitation and high temperatures increased the content of tocopherols, Cu and Zn but decreased the kernel ratio, the oil content, and the levels of macro-elements and of Cr, Fe, Mn and Mo. The obtained data indicate some statistically significant correlations among the kernel quality parameters and climate. A small variation in oil concentration with the highest value in ‘Texas’ (60.07%) was observed. The main tocopherol homologue was α-tocopherol (39.4 to 404.4 mg/100 g DW), representing more than 90% of the total tocopherols. Potassium was predominant (882.0 to 1104.5 mg/100 g), followed by phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and sodium. The most abundant micro-elements were iron (3.095 to 3.708 mg/100 g) and zinc (2.641 to 4.765 mg/100 g), followed by manganese, copper, molybdenum and chromium. The genotype 15/03 has the highest level of health-promoting compounds (α-tocopherol, potassium and zinc), so that, together with genotype 25/03 which showed the best response to changing climatic conditions, this genotype could be of interest for breeding programs.

Current and future threats to human health in the Anthropocene

It has been widely recognised that the threats to human health from global environmental changes (GECs) are increasing in the Anthropocene epoch, and urgent actions are required to tackle these pressing challenges. A scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of the nine planetary boundaries and the threats to population health posed by human activities that are exceeding these boundaries in the Anthropocene. The research progress and key knowledge gaps were identified in this emerging field. Over the past three decades, there has been a great deal of research progress on health risks from climate change, land-use change and urbanisation, biodiversity loss and other GECs. However, several significant challenges remain, including the misperception of the relationship between human and nature; assessment of the compounding risks of GECs; strategies to reduce and prevent the potential health impacts of GECs; and uncertainties in fulfilling the commitments to the Paris Agreement. Confronting these challenges will require rigorous scientific research that is well-coordinated across different disciplines and various sectors. It is imperative for the international community to work together to develop informed policies to avert crises and ensure a safe and sustainable planet for the present and future generations.