n-3 Omega fatty acids: a review of current knowledge

Physicochemical properties of edible cricket oils: Implications for use in pharmaceutical and food industries

The prevailing global market demands locally produced, sustainable oils for biomedical applications. This study focused on evaluating the quality of cricket-derived oils and meals from Scapsipedus icipe Hugel, Tanga, and Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer common delicacy in Africa, following standard methods for physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and phytochemicals (oxalates, phytates, tannins, and polyphenols). The cricket oils physicochemical properties aligned with Codex Alimentarius standards for edible oils, including low solidification temperature (< 2 °C), a high refractive index (1.46), and a specific gravity of 0.88. Notably, peroxide values (1.9 to 2.5 mg mEq O2/kg), acid values (1.1 to 2.2 mg KOH/g), and saponification values (234-246 mg KOH/g) all are indicative of lightness and unsaturated fatty acids. Nutritionally, cricket powder was rich in protein (56.8-56.9% -) and fat (31.7-33.5% -of dry matter), with significant amounts of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Predominant saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were palmitic (23.9-31.2 mg/100 g-) and oleic acids (10.9-11.4 mg/100 g- of oil), respectively. Antioxidant values (48.0 to 65.0 mg/100 g), inferred from total polyphenols, suggests a stable oil with long shelf-life. These results highlight the promising and sustainable potential of cricket-derived oils for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Biochemical characterization of lipid metabolic genes of Aurantiochytrium limacinum

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is known to have numerous health benefits and immense dietary value. There is a pressing need to have a deeper understanding of DHA metabolism. Acyl CoA: Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase (DGAT) is an important enzyme of lipid anabolism and an essential piece of the puzzle. Aurantiochytrium limacinum, a primary producer of DHA, is a good model for studying DHA metabolism. Thus, we aimed to investigate important lipid metabolic genes from A. limacinum. We cloned four putative DGATs (DGAT2a, DGAT2b, DGAT2c, and DGAT2d) from A. limacinum and performed detailed in vivo and in vitro characterization. Functional characterization showed that not all the studied genes exhibited DGAT activity. DGAT2a and DGAT2d conferred DGAT activity whereas DGAT2b showed wax synthase (WS) activity and DGAT2c showed dual function of both WS and DGAT. Based on their identified function, DGAT2b and DGAT2c were renamed as AlWS and AlWS/DGAT respectively. DGAT2a was found to exhibit a preference for DHA as a substrate. DGAT2d was found to have robust activity and emerged as a promising candidate for genetic engineering aimed at increasing oil yield. The study enriches our knowledge of lipid biosynthetic enzymes in A. limacinum, which can be utilized to design suitable application strategies.

Marine Animal Co-Products-How Improving Their Use as Rich Sources of Health-Promoting Lipids Can Foster Sustainability

Marine lipids are recognized for their-health promoting features, mainly for being the primary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and are therefore critical for human nutrition in an age when the global supply for these nutrients is experiencing an unprecedent pressure due to an ever-increasing demand. The seafood industry originates a considerable yield of co-products worldwide that, while already explored for other purposes, remain mostly undervalued as sustainable sources of healthy lipids, often being explored for low-value oil production. These co-products are especially appealing as lipid sources since, besides the well-known nutritional upside of marine animal fat, which is particularly rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, they also have interesting bioactive properties, which may garner them further interest, not only as food, but also for other high-end applications. Besides the added value that these co-products may represent as valuable lipid sources, there is also the obvious ecological upside of reducing seafood industry waste. In this sense, repurposing these bioresources will contribute to a more sustainable use of marine animal food, reducing the strain on already heavily depleted seafood stocks. Therefore, untapping the potential of marine animal co-products as valuable lipid sources aligns with both health and environmental goals by guaranteeing additional sources of healthy lipids and promoting more eco-conscious practices.

Molecular Mechanisms Associated with the Inhibitory Role of Long Chain n-3 PUFA in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the world. Multiple evidence suggests that there is an association between excess fat consumption and the risk of CRC. The long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential for human health, and both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that these fatty acids can prevent CRC development through various molecular mechanisms. These include the modulation of arachidonic acid (AA) derived prostaglandin synthesis, alteration of growth signaling pathways, arrest of the cell cycle, induction of cell apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis and modulation of inflammatory response. Human clinical studies found that LC n-3 PUFA combined with chemotherapeutic agents can improve the efficacy of treatment and reduce the dosage of chemotherapy and associated side effects. In this review, we discuss comprehensively the anti-cancer effects of LC n-3 PUFA on CRC, with a main focus on the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: Metabolism and health implications

Recently, omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) have gained substantial interest due to their specific structure and biological functions. Humans cannot naturally produce these fatty acids (FAs), making it crucial to obtain them from our diet. This comprehensive review details n-3 LC-PUFAs and their role in promoting and maintaining optimal health. The article thoroughly analyses several sources of n-3 LC-PUFAs and their respective bioavailability, covering marine, microbial and plant-based sources. Furthermore, we provide an in-depth analysis of the biological impacts of n-3 LC-PUFAs on health conditions, with particular emphasis on cardiovascular disease (CVD), gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, diabetes, depression, arthritis, and cognition. In addition, we highlight the significance of fortification and supplementation of n-3 LC-PUFAs in both functional foods and dietary supplements. Additionally, we conducted a detailed analysis of the several kinds of n-3 LC-PUFAs supplements currently available in the market, including an assessment of their recommended intake, safety, and effectiveness. The dietary guidelines associated with n-3 LC-PUFAs are also highlighted, focusing on the significance of maintaining a well-balanced intake of n-3 PUFAs to enhance health benefits. Lastly, we highlight future directions for further research in this area and their potential implications for public health.

Development of sustainable downstream processing for nutritional oil production

Nutritional oils (mainly omega-3 fatty acids) are receiving increased attention as critical supplementary compounds for the improvement and maintenance of human health and wellbeing. However, the predominant sources of these oils have historically shown numerous limitations relating to desirability and sustainability; hence the crucial focus is now on developing smarter, greener, and more environmentally favourable alternatives. This study was undertaken to consider and assess the numerous prevailing and emerging techniques implicated across the stages of fatty acid downstream processing. A structured and critical comparison of the major classes of disruption methodology (physical, chemical, thermal, and biological) is presented, with discussion and consideration of the viability of new extraction techniques. Owing to a greater desire for sustainable industrial practices, and a desperate need to make nutritional oils more available; great emphasis has been placed on the discovery and adoption of highly sought-after 'green' alternatives, which demonstrate improved efficiency and reduced toxicity compared to conventional practices. Based on these findings, this review also advocates new forays into application of novel nanomaterials in fatty acid separation to improve the sustainability of nutritional oil downstream processing. In summary, this review provides a detailed overview of the current and developing landscape of nutritional oil; and concludes that adoption and refinement of these sustainable alternatives could promptly allow for development of a more complete 'green' process for nutritional oil extraction; allowing us to better meet worldwide needs without costing the environment.

Untargeted metabolomics of saliva in pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus and healthy non-pregnant women

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the differences in salivary metabolites between pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), healthy pregnant women (HPW), and healthy non-pregnant women (HNPW), and analyze the possible associations between the identified metabolites and gingivitis.

Method

The study included women with GDM (n = 9, mean age 28.9 ± 3.6 years, mean gestational age 30.1 ± 3.2 weeks), HPW (n = 9, mean age 27.9 ± 3.0 years, mean gestational age 28.6 ± 4.7 weeks), and HNPW (n = 9, mean age 27.7 ± 2.1 years). Saliva samples were collected from all participants and were analyzed with LC-MS/MS-based untargeted metabolomic analysis. Metabolite extraction, qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis, and bioinformatics analysis were performed to identify the differential metabolites and metabolic pathways between groups. The identified differential metabolites were further analyzed in an attempt to explore their possible associations with periodontal health and provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of periodontal inflammation during pregnancy.

Results

In positive ion mode, a total of 2,529 molecular features were detected in all samples, 166 differential metabolites were identified between the GDM and HPW groups (89 upregulated and 77 downregulated), 823 differential metabolites were identified between the GDM and HNPW groups (402 upregulated and 421 downregulated), and 647 differential metabolites were identified between the HPW and HNPW groups (351 upregulated and 296 downregulated). In negative ion mode, 983 metabolites were detected in all samples, 49 differential metabolites were identified between the GDM and HPW groups (29 upregulated and 20 downregulated), 341 differential metabolites were identified between the GDM and HNPW groups (167 upregulated and 174 downregulated), and 245 differential metabolites were identified between the HPW and HNPW groups (112 upregulated and 133 downregulated). A total of nine differential metabolites with high confidence levels were identified in both the positive and negative ion modes, namely, L-isoleucine, D-glucose 6-phosphate, docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid, adenosine, adenosine-monophosphate, adenosine 5'-monophosphate, xanthine, and hypoxanthine. Among all pathways enriched by the upregulated differential metabolites, the largest number of pathways were enriched by four differential metabolites, adenosine, adenosine 5'-monophosphate, D-glucose 6-phosphate, and adenosine-monophosphate, and among all pathways enriched by the downregulated differential metabolites, the largest number of pathways were enriched by three differential metabolites, L-isoleucine, xanthine, and arachidonic acid.

Conclusion

Untargeted metabolomic analysis of saliva samples from pregnant women with GDM, HPW, and HNPW identified nine differential metabolites with high confidence. The results are similar to findings from previous metabolomics studies of serum and urine samples, which offer the possibility of using saliva for regular noninvasive testing in the population of pregnant women with and without GDM. Meanwhile, the associations between these identified differential metabolites and gingivitis need to be further validated by subsequent studies.

Detection of Heavy Metals, Their Distribution in Tilapia spp., and Health Risks Assessment

Concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) were assessed in Tilapia spp. from selected communities in Calapan City, Philippines. Eleven (11) inland farmed tilapia samples were collected and analyzed for HMs concentration using X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The 11 fish samples were cut into seven pieces, according to the fish body parts, constituting a total of 77 samples. These fish samples were then labeled as bone, fins, head, meat, skin, and viscera. Results showed that the mean concentration of Cd in all parts of tilapia exceeded the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) limits. The highest concentration was recorded in the fins, which was sevenfold higher than the limit. The trend of the mean concentration of Cd in different parts of tilapia was fins > viscera > skin > tail > head > meat > bone. The target hazard quotient (THQ) recorded a value less than 1. This means that the population exposed to tilapia, within the area where fish samples originated, were not at risk to non-carcinogens. The concentrations of Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, and Zn in different parts, particularly in skin, fins, and viscera, also exceeded the FAO/WHO limits. The calculated cancer risk (CR) in consuming the fish skin, meat, fins, bone, viscera, and head was higher than the USEPA limit. This indicated a possible carcinogenic risk when consumed regularly. Most of the correlations observed between HMs in various parts of the tilapia had positive (direct) relationships, which were attributed to the HM toxicity target organ characteristics. Results of the principal component analysis (PCA) showed that most of the dominating HMs recorded in tilapia were attributable to anthropogenic activities and natural weathering within the watershed of agricultural areas. The agriculture area comprises about 86.83% of the overall land area of Calapan City. The identified carcinogenic risks were associated with Cd. Therefore, regular monitoring of HMs in inland fishes, their habitat, and surface water quality shall be carried out. This information is useful in creating strategies in metals concentration monitoring, health risks reduction program, and relevant guidelines that would reduce the accumulation of HM in fish.

Chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk from Xinjiang

Pamir yak milk is considered to be ideal food for local people, but its nutritional profile has not yet been reported. This study investigated the chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk, and compared the results with reference composition of goat and cow milk. We found that the Pamir yak milk had higher contents of protein (4.30%), fat (4.63), lactose (5.21%) and total solid (14.84%) than that of goat and cow milk. The predominant amino acids were glutamate (20%), proline (10%), lysine (10%) and leucine (10%), of which the essential amino acids accounted for 48% of the total amino acids. Meanwhile, Pamir yak milk was rich in minerals such as Ca, Fe, Zn and Mg and thiamine (B₁ ), niacin (B₃ ), Pyridoxine (B₆ ) and cobalamin (B₁₂ ) were higher than those of cow and goat milk. Also, medium-chain fatty acids (C12-C16) exhibited the highest level. However, The α -linolenic acid (C18:3), eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were found in yak milk. All of the above-mentioned differences were demonstrated by the fact that the yak milk quality may be affecting by pasture production, animal species and nutritive value of the herbage. Therefore, Pamir yak milk is a promising alternative food that may contribute to human health.

Fatty Acid Composition of Northern Pike from an Arctic River (Northeastern Siberia, Russia)

We assayed the fatty acid composition of muscles of the northern pike Esox lucius Linnaeus, 1758 inhabiting the Gyda River, Siberia, Russia using gas-liquid chromatography. Of 43 fatty acids identified in the pike samples, 23 fatty acids accounted for 99.3% of the total content. The most abundant saturated fatty acids (SFA, 31.6%) were palmitic (C16:0, 20.0%) and stearic (C18:0, 7.3%) acids. Among monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA, 15.1%), oleic acid (C18:1n9, 10.2%) and palmitoleic acid (C16:1, 4.1%) demonstrated the highest levels. The most represented polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, 53.3%) were arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6, 7.6%), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3, 7.3%), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3, 26.3%). The fatty acid profile of specimens from the Gyda River was different in comparison to profiles found in other pike populations, most likely due to different diets. Pike flesh has good nutrition quality in terms of a low n-6/n-3 ratio (0.36), low atherogenic (0.39), and thrombogenic (0.22) indices, and a high ratio of hypocholesterolemic to hypercholesterolemic fatty acids (2.83), and this species can be recommended as a replacement or alternative to other fish sources in traditional diets.

Effects of dietary fermented peony seed dreg on the laying performance, albumen quality, antioxidant capacity, and n-3 PUFA-enriching property of laying hens

Introduction

It is of great importance to seek agro-industrial byproducts that can serve as unconventional or alternative feedstuffs for poultry, especially those that are substitutive sources of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as this will contribute to alleviating feed shortage pressure and improving poultry performance and product quality. In this study, the effects of dietary fermented peony seed dreg (FPSD) on the production performance of hens and fatty acid composition of meat and egg yolk were evaluated.

Methods

A total of 480 54-week-old Xinyang chickens were divided into 5 groups: control (basal diet); 5% peony seed dreg (PSD); and 5%, 7% and 9% FPSD, and each group consisted of 6 replicates with 16 birds per replicate. Production performances were recorded daily, and egg quality, serum parameters, antibody titers and fatty acid profile in the muscle and yolk were measured at 64 weeks of age.

Results and discussion

Egg production, feed conversion ratio and egg albumen quality were improved (p < 0.05) by 5% and 7% FPSD groups compared to 5% PSD and the control diet. Immune status was not influenced by PSD, but antibody titres against H7N9 and ND were improved by FPSD diets during most of the experimental periods. Dietary 5% and 7% FPSD increased (p < 0.05) serum high density lipoprotein concentrations and glutathione peroxidase actives. Total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in meat and yolk increased gradually, while the total saturated fatty acids (SFA) and the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio decreased gradually with increasing dietary FPSD levels. In conclusion, up to 7% dietary FPSD has the potential use to be utilized as a supplement in Xinyang laying hen diets to produce n-3 PUFA-enriched meat and eggs and positively affect production performance and health status.

Simultaneous photoautotrophic production of DHA and EPA by Tisochrysis lutea and Microchloropsis salina in co-culture

Marine microalgae have received much attention as a sustainable source of the two health beneficial omega-3-fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5). However, photoautotrophic monocultures of microalgae can only produce either DHA or EPA enriched biomass. An alternative may be the photoautotrophic co-cultivation of Tisochrysis lutea as DHA-producer with Microchloropsis salina for simultaneous EPA production to obtain EPA- and DHA-rich microalgae biomass in a nutritionally balanced ratio. Photoautotrophic co-cultivation processes of T. lutea and M. salina were studied, applying scalable and fully controlled lab-scale gas-lift flat-plate photobioreactors with LED illumination for dynamic climate simulation of a repeated sunny summer day in Australia [day-night cycles of incident light (PAR) and temperature]. Monocultures of both marine microalgae were used as reference batch processes. Differences in the autofluorescence of both microalgae enabled the individual measurement, of cell distributions in co-culture, by flow cytometry. The co-cultivation of T. lutea and M. salina in artificial sea water with an inoculation ratio of 1:3 resulted in a balanced biomass production of both microalgae simultaneously with a DHA:EPA ratio of almost 1:1 (26 mgDHA gCDW-1, and 23 mgEPA gCDW-1, respectively) at harvest after depletion of the initially added fertilizer. Surprisingly, more microalgae biomass was produced within 8 days in co-cultivation with an increase in the cell dry weight (CDW) concentration by 31%, compared to the monocultures with the same amount of light and fertilizer. What is more, DHA-content of the microalgae biomass was enhanced by 33% in the co-culture, whereas EPA-content remained unchanged compared to the monocultures.

Utilization and characterization of flaxseed oil in ultrasonically emulsified mango beverage

The present study described the formation of stable emulsion of flaxseed oil (0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% v/v) in ready to serve Mango beverages using 20 kHz ultrasound of power input 21 W, 32 W, 43 W for varying times 3, 5, 7 min to create emulsion droplets size 100-800 nm. Oil was extracted by ultrasound-assisted extraction and solvent extraction method by varying solvents, time, ultrasonic intensity etc. and physio-chemical characterization was conducted. Fatty acid profiling revealed that linolenic acid and linoleic acid are major fatty acids present in extracted oil. Effect of flaxseed oil in fruit-based beverage was evaluated in terms of turbidity, pH, acidity, color, antioxidant activity and carotenoids content. Pectin stabilizes emulsion droplets by generating electrostatic repulsion (ζ potential - 25 mV) and the emulsions were stable upto 18 days at (4 ± 2) °C. The rheological behaviour in terms of viscosity of the emulsion stayed unaffected with sonication time upon storage. The carotenoids and antioxidant activity significantly increased from 151.37 to 292.24 µg/mL and 26.99% to 61.43% respectively at 0 to 0.75% added oil in the beverage and enhanced stability by preventing lipid oxidation. Organoleptic score of 0.25% and 0.50% of the flaxseed oil in the beverage was found to be acceptable.

Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) Meal as a Natural Antioxidant on Lipid and Protein Quality and Shelf-Life of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Enriched Eggs

Eggs are a common food of animal origin, inexpensive, and rich in bioactive substances with high biological value. Eggs enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are extremely desired by the progressive consumer. However, during storage, eggs undergo some physiochemical changes, which decrease their value. In this regard, the effect of dietary rosehip meal and flaxseed meal on hens’ egg quality characteristics, amino acids, fatty acids, health-related indices, antioxidant capacity, total polyphenols content, and shelf life was examined. For this study 120 Tetra SL laying hens, 29 weeks of age, were fed, for 4 weeks, three diets that included control (basal diet—RF0), basal diet + 1.5% rosehip and 7% flaxseed meal (RF1), and basal diet + 3% rosehip and 7% flaxseed meal (RF2). Productive performance of hens were recorded. The content of essential amino acids (EAA), antioxidant amino acids (AAA), and sulfur amino acids (SAA) was higher in RF1 and RF2, compared with RF0. Eggs belonging to the RF1 and RF2 groups had significantly (p < 0.05) higher content of n-3 PUFAs, especially linolenic and docosahexaenoic acids. Total antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content increased in both rosehip supplemented groups, but especially in RF2. Moreover, eggs from RF1 and RF2 groups maintained significantly higher egg quality parameters after storage for 14 and 28 days in the refrigerator (5 °C) and ambient temperature (21 °C), compared with those from the RF0 group. In the Haugh unit, yolk and albumen pH presented better values in RF1 and RF2 eggs compared to the RF0 eggs.

Amelioration for oxidative stability and bioavailability of N-3 PUFA enriched microalgae oil: an overview

Technological improvements in dietary supplements and nutraceuticals have highlighted the significance of bioactive molecules in a healthy lifestyle. Eicosapentaenoic acid and Cervonic acid (DHA), omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids seem to be famed for their ability to prevent diverse physiological abnormalities. Selection of appropriate pretreatments and extraction techniques for extraction of lipids from robust microalgae cell wall are very important to retain their stability and bioactivity. Therefore, extraction techniques with optimized extraction parameters offer an excellent approach for obtaining quality oil with a high yield. Oils enriched in omega-3 are particularly imperiled to oxidation which ultimately affects customer acceptance. Bio active encapsulation could be one of the effective approaches to overcome this dilemma. This review paper aims to give insight into the cultivation methods, and downstream processes, various lipid extraction approaches, techniques for retaining oxidative stability, bioavailability and food applications based on extracted or encapsulated omega-3.

Analysis of the Fatty Acid Profile of the Tissues of Hunted Mallard Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos L.) from Poland

The aim of the study was to analyse the fatty acid profile of selected tissues of mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos L.), in relation to where they were obtained and their sex, with regard to the human diet. The study was carried out on material obtained from mallard ducks from two study areas: the Siedlce hunting district and the Leszno hunting district. The research material was the breast and leg muscles of 28 mallards. The samples were frozen and stored at −20 °C. The fatty acid profiles in the biological samples were determined by selected ion recording (SIR). The results showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower average levels of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and significantly higher (p < 0.05) average levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), n-6 PUFAs, and n-3 PUFAs in the breast muscles of the mallards obtained in the Siedlce hunting district. This in conjunction with the higher (p < 0.05) hypocholesterolaemic/hypercholesterolaemic index (h/H) in the leg muscles and lower (p < 0.05) atherogenic and thrombogenic indices (AI and TI) in the leg and breast muscles of mallards in the Siedlce hunting district indicate the higher health-promoting value of the meat of ducks from this region. The average n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in the breast muscles was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in mallards obtained in the Leszno hunting district. Males of the species had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher average n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in the breast muscles than females. The PUFA/SFA ratio was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the leg muscles of the female mallards than in the males.

Fatty Acid Profiles and Nutritional Evaluation of Fresh Sweet-Waxy Corn from Three Regions of China

Fresh corn is a kind of herbaceous plant with rich nutritive value and a reasonable composition of fatty acids; however, there is little research on methods for the systemic nutritional evaluation of fatty acids in fresh corn. The aim of the present study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the fatty acid profiles of Chinese Huangnuo 9 sweet-waxy corn from the provinces of Inner Mongolia, Jilin, and Heilongjiang by gas chromatography; to establish a nutritional evaluation system according to the impacts of nutrients from fatty acids on human health; and finally, to evaluate, compare and rank fresh sweet-waxy corn grown in different regions. Tocopherols were detected by liquid chromatography in order to demonstrate the anti-oxidation activity of fresh corn’s fatty acids. The fatty acid contents and compositions of the 12 samples from the three regions are significantly different from each other. The nutrient value of the fatty acids in fresh corn was analyzed by factor analysis and a linear structural relation model, followed by the fitting and appraising of the model. The studied fresh sweet-waxy corn 1-4 from Inner Mongolia had the highest γ-tocopherol content and the closest saturated fatty acid:monounsaturated fatty acid:polyunsaturated fatty acid rate to the recommended value. The fatty acid profiles of sweet-waxy corns 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 were the most diverse, and the comprehensive evaluation result of fresh corn 2-4 was the best; its total fatty acid content was the highest. Fresh corn 3-1 in Heilongjiang had the highest unsaturated fatty acids and lower values in its atherosclerosis index and thrombosis index, which suggested the strongest anti-atherosclerosis and anti-thrombotic ability. This work will give a reference to guide dietary choices and provide data support for dietary recommendations for residents.

Translating PUFA omega 6:3 ratios from wild to captive hibernators (Urocitellus parryii) enhances sex-dependent mass-gain without increasing physiological stress indicators

Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are well-documented for their influence on health and weight loss. Recent studies indicate omega 3 PUFAs may exert a negative impact on cellular stress and physiology in some hibernators. We asked if physiological stress indicators, lipid peroxidation and mass gain in Arctic Ground Squirrels (AGS) were negatively influenced by naturally occurring dietary omega 3 PUFA levels compared to omega 3 PUFA levels found in common laboratory diets. We found plasma fatty acid profiles of free-ranging AGS to be high in omega 3 PUFAs with balanced omega 6:3 ratios, while standard laboratory diets and plasma of captive AGS are high in omega 6 and low in omega 3 PUFAs with higher omega 6:3 ratios. Subsequently, we designed a diet to mimick free-range AGS omega 6:3 ratios in captive AGS. Groups of wild-caught juvenile AGS were either fed: (1) Mazuri Rodent Chow (Standard Rodent chow, 4.95 omega 6:3 ratio), or (2) balanced omega 6:3 chow (Balanced Diet, 1.38 omega 6:3). AGS fed the Balanced Diet had plasma omega 6:3 ratios that mimicked plasma profiles of wild AGS. Balanced Diet increased female body mass before hibernation, but did not influence levels of cortisol in plasma or levels of the lipid peroxidation product 4-HNE in brown adipose tissue. Overall, as the mass gain is critical during pre-hibernation for obligate hibernators, the results show that mimicking a fatty acid profile of wild AGS facilitates sex-dependent mass accumulation without increasing stress indicators.

Effects of diets with various levels of forage rape (Brassica napus) on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality and rumen microbiota of Hu lambs

BACKGROUND

Apart from being an oil crop, forage rape (Brassica napus) can be used to feed ruminants. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of pelleted total mixed ration (TMR) diets with various levels of forage rape on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, meat nutritional value and rumen microbiota of Hu lambs, which was important for the efficient utilization of forage rape and alleviating the shortage of high-quality forage in China.

RESULTS

Lambs fed on diets with 200-400 g kg^-1 forage rape had greater average daily gain (ADG) and lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) than those fed on diets with 0-100 g kg^-1 of forage rape (P < 0.05). As dietary forage rape levels increased, the content of intramuscular α-linolenic acid and a variety of amino acids in the muscle increased linearly (P < 0.05). No difference was found in carcass traits or meat quality among the dietary treatments (P > 0.05). However, the inclusion of forage rape increased the relative abundance of cellulolytic bacteria and short-chain fatty acid producers, including Succiniclasticum, Fibrobacter and members of the Lachnospiraceae. Besides, Succiniclasticum was found to be positively correlated with the final body weight of lambs.

CONCLUSION

TMR diets that included 200-400 g kg^-1 forage rape could improve the growth performance of lambs, and elevated the content of intramuscular α-linolenic acid and a variety of amino acids in the muscle, accompanied by increased abundance of cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen.

Fabrication and characterization of gum arabic- and maltodextrin-based microcapsules containing polyunsaturated oils

BACKGROUND

Polyunsaturated oils have various health-promoting effects, however, they are highly prone to oxidation. Encapsulation using biopolymers is one of the most effective strategies to enhance oil stability. This research examined the potential of gum arabic and maltodextrin for microencapsulation of omega-3 rich oils, aiming to enhance encapsulation efficiency and stability of encapsulated oil.

RESULTS

We encapsulated fish and flaxseed oils by emulsification-spray drying. Spray-dried microcapsules were prepared by oil-in-water emulsions consisting of 10 wt% oil and 30 wt% biopolymer (gum arabic, maltodextrin, or their mixture). Results showed that both microcapsules were spherical in shape with surface shrinkage, and exhibited amorphous structures. Gum arabic-based microcapsules had higher encapsulation efficiency as well as better storage stability for both types of oil. Flaxseed oil microcapsules generally had higher oxidative stability regardless of the type of wall material.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a comprehensive characterization of the physical and chemical properties of the emulsions and resulting microcapsules, we proved gum arabic to be a more effective wall material for polyunsaturated oil microencapsulation, especially flaxseed oil. This study provides a promising approach to stabilize oils which are susceptible to deterioration, and facilitates their wider uses as food and nutraceutical products. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Natural products against cisplatin-induced male reproductive toxicity: A comprehensive review

Cisplatin is widely used as one of the most effective anticancer agents in the treatment of some neoplasms. Reproductive toxicity is the most common outcome associated with cisplatin testicular damage. Alternative natural medicines for treating male testicular disorders and infertility have received extensive attention in research. Natural products, medicinal herbs, and their secondary metabolites have been shown as promising agents in the management of testicular damage induced by chemotherapy drugs. This study aimed to review the research related to natural substances that are promising in mitigation of the cisplatin-induced toxicity in the reproductive system. PubMed and Scopus were searched for studies on various natural products for their potential protective property against reproductive toxicity induced by cisplatin from 2000 to 2020. Eligibility was checked based on selection criteria. Fifty-nine articles were included in this review. Mainly in animal studies, several natural agents have positively affected cisplatin-reproductive-toxicity factors, including reactive oxygen species, inflammatory mediators, DNA damage, and activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Most of the natural agents were investigated in short-term duration and high doses of cisplatin exposure, considering their antioxidant activity against oxidative stress. Considering antioxidant properties, various natural products might be effective for the management of cisplatin reproductive toxicity. However, long-term recovery of spermatogenesis and management of low-dose-cisplatin toxicity should be considered as well as the bioavailability of these agents before and after treatment with cisplatin without affecting its anticancer activity.

Food and Feed Safety of NS-B5ØØ27-4 Omega-3 Canola (Brassica napus): A New Source of Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids

DHA canola, a genetically engineered Brassica napus (OECD Unique Identifier NS-B5ØØ27-4), has been developed as one of the first land-based production systems for omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), whose health benefits are well-established. Yet, the marine sources of these nutrients are under high pressures due to over-fishing and increasing demand. DHA canola is a plant-based source for these essential fatty acids that produces a high level of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This terrestrial system allows for sustainable, scalable and stable production of omega-3 LCPUFA that addresses not only the increasing market demand, but also the complex interplay of agriculture, aquaculture, and human nutrition. The vector used to produce the desired oil profile in DHA canola contains the expression cassettes of seven genes in the DHA biosynthesis pathway and was specifically designed to convert oleic acid to DHA in canola seed. The characterization and safety evaluation of food and feed produced from DHA canola are described and supported by a detailed nutritional analysis of the seed, meal, and oil. Aside from the intended changes of the fatty acid profile, none of the other compositional analytes showed biologically meaningful differences when compared to conventional canola varieties. In addition, the meal from DHA canola is compositionally equivalent to conventional canola meal. Further evidence of nutritional value and safety of DHA canola oil have been confirmed in fish feeding studies. Given that most human populations lack sufficient daily intakes of omega-3 LCPUFA, a dietary exposure assessment is also included. In conclusion, the results from these studies demonstrate it is safe to use products derived from DHA canola in human foods, nutraceuticals, or animal feeds.

Determination and Chemometrics-Assisted Comparative Analysis of Active Components in Different Tissue of Rana chensinensis

In this study, the chemical composition of different tissues of Rana temporaria chensinensis David derived from the same individual was analyzed by comparative approach. First, pre-column derivatization combined with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was established to determine the content of 1-methyl hydantoin in samples, which used S1–S5 samples. The results indicated that 1-methyl hydantoin was determined in Oviductus Ranae (OR), Rana chensinensis ovum (RCO), Rana chensinensis meat (RCM), and Rana chensinensis skin (RCS), except for Rana chensinensis bone (RCB). Moreover, the content of it in RCS was the highest. In addition, the contents of six polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in different tissues of Rana chensinensis were measured by HPLC, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), arachidonic acid (ARA), linoleic acid (LA) and oleic acid (OA). The results indicated that OR, RCO, RCM, RCS, and RCB all contained the above six PUFAs. With the aid of chemometrics methods, the results of principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) combined with the sequencing results of the total PUFAs content of each sample, showed that different tissues of Rana chensinensis could be divided into four categories, and the RCO sample was divided into one category because of the highest PUFAs content, which was a good source of PUFA. For comparison, OR and other tissue from the perspective of PUFAs, we also established OPLS-DA models of them. It could be found that the RCM was the most similar to the OR in the diversity and content of PUFAs. This study provided a theoretical basis for the further development and utilization of RCO, RCM, RCS, and RCB as by-products of OR.

Fatty acid profile of eggs produced by laying hens fed diets containing different shares of fish oil

This paper presents the results of the research on the use of fish oil (FO) in combination with soybean oil (SO) in laying hens diet on physical and chemical properties of fresh eggs and those stored in a refrigerator for 28 d at + 4°C. Fatty acids (FA) profile, as well as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values in yolks are also presented. The following feeding treatments have been used: C (control, without FO), E1 (0.3% FO + 4.7% SO), E2 (0.6% FO + 4.4% SO), E3 (0.9% FO + 4.1% SO), E4 (1.2% FO + 3.8% SO) and E5 (1.5% FO + 3.5% SO). Laying hens diets were balanced at the level of 176.10 g/kg crude protein and 11.50 MJ/kg ME. The results of the study showed that feeding treatments affected the relative shares of the eggs basic parts (P < 0.05). The egg storage duration significantly reduced Haugh units (HU), egg and albumen egg weight, and increased the yolk color intensity (P < 0.001). Fish oil share increment in the diets resulted in the EPA (eicosapentaenoic FA) content increase from 10.27 to 20.10 mg/100 g egg; DHA (docosahexaenoic FA) from 105.44 to 236.87 mg/100 g egg and ∑ n-3 PUFA (polyunsatureated FA) from 204.59 to 327.35 mg/100 g egg. The ∑ n-6 PUFA/∑ n-3 PUFA ratio decreased from 8.69 (C group) to 4.54 (E5 group). TBARS values were affected by feeding treatments as well as treatment-storage interactions (P < 0.01).

Leucine, but not isoleucine or valine, affects serum lipid profiles and browning of WAT in mice

Branched chain amino acids (BCAA), especially leucine (Leu), have been reported to decrease fat deposition. However, opposite effects of BCAA on lipid metabolism have been observed. To determine the role of BCAA in lipid metabolism, an amino acid-defined diet was formulated and C57BL/6J mice were assigned into the following groups: amino acid-defined control diet and control diet supplemented with Leu, isoleucine, or valine. Nitrogen was balanced by proportionally mixed amino acids except BCAA. Results showed that dietary Leu supplementation significantly increased the levels of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and urea nitrogen. Metabolomics showed that biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids was altered by Leu supplementation. Leu treatment up-regulated the expression of genes related to fat synthesis and down-regulated the expression of genes related to fatty acid synthesis. Furthermore, the genes and proteins of selective markers involved in browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) were up-regulated by dietary supplementation with Leu. This study indicated that dietary supplementation with Leu, but not isoleucine or valine, significantly affected lipid metabolism by regulating lipid metabolism-related genes and serum fatty acid concentration, providing a new tool in the management of obesity and metabolic disorders.

Intended Ranges and Correlations between Percentages of Variables Like Oleic Acid, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, and Arachidonic Acid

In chicken muscle, we previously showed that ranges of oleic acid (OA), arachidonic acid (AA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) might explain why %OA was inversely related to %AA, and that %EPA correlated positively with %AA. We here try to clarify further how ranges of the fatty acids could make strong associations between their relative amounts, utilizing published data from chicken muscle and human sera. We generated random number variables (OA’, AA’, EPA’) in lieu of the true variables, and we studied effects of altering their ranges upon scatterplots of %OA’ vs. %AA’ (%EPA’), and %AA’ vs. %EPA’. To explain the results, we first applied the equation OA’ + AA’ + EPA’ = S, i.e., %OA’ + %AA’ + %EPA’ = 100. Next, we considered how the OA’ (AA’, EPA’) fractions of S related to S. Increasing the OA’ range towards higher values improved the positive association between %AA’ and %EPA’. Thus, increased intake of OA could improve the positive correlations between percentages of eicosanoid precursors, raising the question of whether “intended ranges” of some fatty acids represent a case of evolutionary selection to, e.g., achieve balance between eicosanoids.

Effects of fermented Yupingfeng on intramuscular fatty acids and ruminal microbiota in Qingyuan black goats

Our previous work has demonstrated that Yupingfeng, a Chinese herb medicine, considered as prebiotic showed beneficial properties in poultry health and disease prevention and regulated intestinal microbiota. The effects of Yupingfeng on fatty acids related to meat flavor and ruminal microbiota are not yet known in Qingyuan black goat. In this study, we supplemented fermented (FYP) and unfermented (UYP) Yupingfeng in different combinations to 90 goats. Compared with the normal control group, FYP and UYP significantly increased the concentration of palmitic acid, octadecanoic acid, and arachidonate acid (related to meat flavor) in the longissimus dorsi muscle (p < .05). In addition, the significant upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and fatty acid translocase (CD36) was observed in the FYP and UYP groups (p < .05). In addition, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the most abundance in goat rumen. At the genus level, FYP and UYP significantly increased Ruminococcus related to fiber degradation, and Alistipes related to short-chain fatty acids production. In summary, Yupingfeng could improve fatty acids of goat meat, which is probably triggered by the increase of PPARγ and CD36, and microbial activity. Besides, FYP showed more beneficial effects than UYP, with increased flavor fatty acids and beneficial microbes.

Effects of gallic acid alkyl esters and their combinations with other antioxidants on oxidative stability of DHA algae oil

The most effective composite antioxidants for DHA algae oil were optimized by combining the selected gallic acid (GA) alkyl ester with other commonly used antioxidants. Results of Rancimat induction time, peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, and free radical generation indicated that octyl gallate (OG) was the best one in DHA algae oil among GA alkyl esters with various chain lengths. Therefore, OG was used to combine other antioxidants (antioxidant of bamboo leaves, rosemary extract, tea polyphenols, tea polyphenol palmitate (TPP), ascorbyl palmitate, vitamin E, phytic acid and phospholipid) for further improving the oxidative stability of DHA algae oil. The combination of OG + TPP showed the best antioxidant effect among the composite antioxidants of two and three components. Through optimization of mixture ratio, the combination of 53.20 mg/kg OG + 360 mg/kg TPP demonstrated the best antioxidant capacity, which prolonged the shelf life of DHA algae oil by 4.24 folds.

Association between plasma irisin and glucose metabolism in pregnant women is modified by dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The role of irisin in maternal glucose metabolism and how it would respond to dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) intake remains unclear. This study aimed to explore whether maternal plasma irisin is associated with glucose metabolism and whether this association is modified by dietary n-3 PUFA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 932 pregnant women (20-28 weeks' gestation) aged 20-45 years were recruited. Dietary n-3 PUFA was estimated using a validated quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Plasma irisin and insulin were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and insulin resistance (IR) was estimated using the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA). Gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed with a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. Adjusted multivariable linear regression and logistic regression were carried out to examine the associations between plasma irisin and glucose metabolism. The moderating effect of dietary n-3 PUFA intake was determined by fully multiplicative models by including the interaction term.

RESULTS

Maternal plasma irisin was negatively associated with HOMA-IR and oral glucose tolerance test 0 h glucose level (β -0.250, -0.067; corrected P-value for false discovery rate = 0.012, 0.018, respectively), positively associated with HOMA of insulin sensitivity (β 0.028; corrected P-value for false discovery rate = 0.012), but not associated with postprandial glucose or the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, we found a moderating effect of dietary n-3 PUFA on the relationships of plasma irisin with HOMA-IR and HOMA of insulin sensitivity; these associations were strengthened with increased n-3 PUFA intake (β -0.037, 0.004; P = 0.014, 0.041, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma irisin was negatively associated with HOMA-IR and fasting glucose, whereas it was positively associated with HOMA of insulin sensitivity in pregnant women. We first showed that these associations were modified by dietary n-3 PUFA intake.

Medicinal Herbs Used in Traditional Management of Breast Cancer: Mechanisms of Action

Background: Breast cancer is one of the principal causes of death among women and there is a pressing need to develop novel and effective anti-cancer agents. Natural plant products have shown promising results as anti-cancer agents. Their effectiveness is reported as decreased toxicity in usage, along with safety and less recurrent resistances compared with hormonal targeting anti-cancer agents. Methods: A literature search was conducted for all English-language literature published prior to June 2020. The search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The search strategy included keywords such as breast cancer, herbs, anti-cancer biologically active components, clinical research, chemotherapy drugs amongst others. Results: The literature provides documented evidence of the chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic properties of Ginseng, garlic (Allium sativum), Black cohosh (Actaea racemose), Tumeric (Curcuma longa), Camellia sinenis (green tea), Echinacea, Arctium (burdock), Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa). Conclusions: The nine herbs displayed anti-cancer properties and their outcomes and mechanisms of action include inhibition of cell proliferation, angiogenesis and apoptosis as well as modulation of key intracellular pathways. However, more clinical trials and cohort human studies should be conducted to provide key evidence of their medical benefits.

Fatty Acid Composition of Meat and Edible Offal from Free-Living Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)

The objective of the study was to characterize tissue-associated differences in the fatty acid composition of fat in skeletal muscles M. longissimus dorsi (loin), M. biceps femoris (hind quarter), and M. triceps brachii (shoulder), and internal organs (i.e., liver, heart, and kidney) from free-living red deer (Cervus elaphus) females (n = 11) hunted in Lithuania. Skeletal muscles were characterized by lower content of free fat compared with the offal. The highest percentage of saturated fatty acids was found in the liver fat, whereas the lowest percentage was in the heart. Red deer offal showed significantly lower and higher proportions of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to meat, respectively. Higher proportions of oleic fatty acid in the shoulder and hind quarter compared to the loin were the only significant differences between skeletal muscles. The lowest and the highest n-6 polyunsaturated/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-6/n-3PUFA) ratio were found in the liver and heart, respectively. More favorable lower atherogenic index and higher hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio found in the offal showed their high nutritional value, however, higher peroxidizability index indicated higher susceptibility to lipid peroxidation compared to skeletal muscles.

Identification and isolation of anti-pneumonia bioactive compounds from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit waste peels

Prickly pear fruit peel constitutes a high percentage of the fruit and could be a natural, economic agro-industrial waste of potential use in the nutraceutical industry. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the main constituents of the fruit peel and evaluate its antibacterial activity. A methanol extract was successively fractionated using hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate. The n-hexane fraction was evaluated for its fatty acid content using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing linolenic acid (omega-3) as the major fatty acid (60.56%), while an ethyl acetate fraction was analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS), resulting in the identification of 6 phenolic acids and 9 flavonoids, where caffeic acid (43.69%) and quercetin (14%) were found the most abundant. The ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to column chromatography, resulting in the isolation of four flavanols, viz. astragalin (1), quercetin 5,4'-dimethyl ether (2), isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside (3) and isorhamnetin (4). Antibacterial evaluation revealed that the EtOAc fraction is the most potent active fraction against the selected pneumonia pathogens, and quercetin 5,4'-dimethyl ether (2) is the most active among the isolated compounds. Virtual docking of the isolated compounds showed promising in silico anti-quorum sensing efficacy, indicating that they could represent natural antibacterial agents. These findings indicate that the unused waste from prickly pear fruits contains valuable constituents that have beneficial potential against some pneumonia pathogens.

Effects of Ultrasonic Operating Parameters and Emulsifier System on Sacha Inchi Oil Nanoemulsion Characteristics

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of ultrasonic operating conditions, i.e., ultrasonic mode, amplitude, total ultrasonic duration time, and emulsifier system in producing an optimum oil-in-water of sacha inchi oil nanoemulsions (SIO-NEs). Physicochemical characteristics (including average droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and viscosity) were the evaluated response variables. Smaller droplet size was obtained from SIO-NEs prepared by ultrasonic pulse application (15s ON and 10s OFF) with an ultrasonic amplitude level of 60%. In contrast, excess energy produced by ultrasonication amplitudes of more than 60% resulted in larger average droplet size and PDI. A decrease in the absolute value of zeta potential and a lower viscosity of SIO-NEs were also observed in conjunction with the high amplitude level of the ultrasonication process. An ultrasonication duration time of longer than 10 minutes did not significantly reduce the droplet size. Five emulsifier systems were evaluated in this study, including Pluronic^®L-31, Brij^®C-10, Tween^®80, Tween^®80/Pluronic^®L-31, and Brij^®C-10/Pluronic^®L-31. The results revealed that the Brij^®C-10/Pluronic^®L-31 mixture produced the smallest droplet size (148 nm) with the lowest PDI (0.210), viscosity (3.35 cPs), and zeta potential (－31.09 mV). The concentration of the Brij^®C-10/Pluronic^®L-31 mixture, used as an emulsifier of SIO-NEs, varied from 1.5% to 9%. Based on the present findings, the most suitable concentration of mixed emulsifier used was deemed as 3% (w/v). The selected SIO-NEs were stored under room temperature to determine their droplet size stability, with the constant slightly increasing within 90 days of storage.

Carcass parameters and meat quality of Tibetan sheep and Small-tailed Han sheep consuming diets of low-protein content and different energy yields

Today, consumers are very health conscious and are more aware of the nutritional value of food, especially of meat, than they were in the past. The aim of this study was to evaluate the carcass parameters and meat quality of Tibetan sheep and Small-tailed Han sheep when consuming a diet of low-protein (~7%) and different energy yields (digestible energy, 8.21, 9.33, 10.45 and 11.57 MJ/kg) in the cold season. Twelve sheep of each breed were divided randomly into four treatments of different diets with three replicates per treatment per breed. Crude protein of the meat decreased linearly (p < .05), whereas energy increased linearly (p < .05) with an increase in energy level. Tibetan sheep tended to have a higher (p < .1) dressing percentage and rib eye area, while live body weight and hot carcass weight did not differ between breeds but increased linearly (p < .01) with an increase in energy level. Water holding capacity, as indicated by pressing loss and drip loss, did not differ between breeds and was not affected by dietary energy. The concentration of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) was greater in Tibetan sheep meat but saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and n-6 PUFA did not differ between breeds. With an increase in energy content of the diet, SFA decreased (p < .05), whereas MUFA increased (p < .05). The n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio was lower (p < .001) in Tibetan sheep meat, while the atherogenic index did not differ between breeds, but tended to decrease (p < .1) with an increase in dietary energy content. The essential amino acid (EAA) content and ratio of EAA:NEAA (non-essential amino acid) were close to the world standards for healthy meat. In summary, (a) Tibetan sheep meat was preferable to Small-tailed Han sheep meat, although differences between breeds were small; and (b) some carcass parameters and meat quality were improved with an increase in dietary energy level when a low-protein diet was offered.

Recent progress in the use of functional foods for older adults: A narrative review

The number and proportion of older adults are increasing globally, and it is predicted that in 2020, there will be 723 million people worldwide aged 66 and older. In recent decades, numerous studies showed that healthy eating is positively associated with better nutritional status and quality of life, and the decreased incidence of noncommunicable diseases. As older adults become health conscious, the demand for foods and beverages rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds has increased. The increased demand for healthy food stimulated a recent rapid increase in designing, producing, and marketing functional foods to prevent or correct nutrient deficiencies and to improve the nutritional status of older adults. These functional products contain and/or are enriched with dietary fiber; omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids; phytoestrogens; polyphenols; carotenoids such as alpha- and beta-carotene; lutein and zeaxanthin; pre-, pro-, and synbiotics; and plant sterols and stanols. A limited number of publications have thoroughly addressed the effect of functional foods on the nutritional status of older adults. The goal of this review was to review existing recent research on the role of functional foods in healthy and active aging.

In vivo monitoring of hepatic glycolipid distribution of n-6 ∕ n-3 in jugular-vein-cannulated rats as a nutritional research model for monogastric animal

The metabolic distribution via blood from liver of glycerolipids by omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid (n-6 / n-3) ratio in monogastric animal nutrition is very important. In vivo monitoring technique using jugular-vein-cannulated rats as a nutritional model for monogastric animal can yield important insights into animal nutrition. This study was conducted to determine the effect of different n-6 / n-3 ratios (71:1, 4:1, 15:1, 30:1) on metabolic distribution of glycerolipids newly synthesized and secreted in the liver of the rats and explore the mechanism involved. Regarding 14CO2 released from oxidation of glycerolipid metabolism, it was the highest (22.5 %) in groups with a n-6 / n-3 ratio of 4:1 (P<0.05). The control group showed the highest total glycerolipid level, followed by the 30:1, 15:1, and 4:1 groups in order (P<0.05). When secreted triacylglycerol level of each group was compared with that of the control group, the 4:1, 15:1, and 30:1 groups were decreased by 36.3 %, 20.9 %, and 13.3 %, respectively (P<0.05). Regarding the distribution of phospholipid against total glycerolipid compared to the control group, the 4:1, 15:1, and 30:1 groups were 1.38, 1.29, and 1.17 times higher, respectively (P<0.05). In the comparison of 14CO2 emission against total glycerolipid compared with the control group, the 4:1, 15:1, and 30:1 groups were 1.61, 1.52, and 1.29 times higher, respectively (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that a dietary n-6 / n-3 fatty acid ratio of 4:1 could significantly decrease harmful lipid levels in the blood by controlling the mechanism of metabolic distribution via blood from triglyceride and phospholipid newly synthesized in the liver of cannulated rat.

Multi-analytical characterization of perigonadal fat in bluefin tuna: from waste to marine lipid source

BACKGROUND

Marine lipids are widely recognized as supplements beneficial to health in the human diet. Bluefin tuna, as most migrating fish, may have high and variable marine lipid contents in their tissues. The viscera of the specimens caught in the Mediterranean Sea are generally discarded. Only ovaries are (locally) used for artisanal seafood preparations.

RESULTS

A multi-analytical approach carried out using infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS) revealed that the perigonadal fats usually discarded during bluefin tuna evisceration are characterized by a high relative abundance of polyunsaturated triacylglycerols (76.2% of dry mass), with docosahexaenoic (DHA, 22:6) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 20:5) acids preferentially located at the sn-2 position of the glycerol backbone. By contrast, in fats from the ovarian tissues, no wax esters and phospholipids were evidenced. Cholesterol was found in very low amounts (84 mg/100 g ovarian tissue). In vitro assays showed that this fatty material is rapidly hydrolyzed by lipase and is prone to auto-oxidation, especially if compared to the stable wax esters contained in the ovary.

CONCLUSION

The results show that the perigonadal fats of bluefin tuna, traditionally wasted after evisceration, may be an interesting source for the preparation of marine lipid supplements that do not require complex fractionation processes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Adding heat-treated rapeseed to the diet of yak improves growth performance and tenderness and nutritional quality of the meat

Heat-treated rapeseed was supplemented to indoor fed yaks in winter to test the effect on dry matter intake (DMI), body mass change, and meat quality. Sixteen 3-year-old yak steers (124 ± 15.3 kg) were divided randomly into two groups and were offered either heat-treated rapeseed (HTR) or rapeseed meal (CONT). The yaks were allowed 14 days for adjustment and measurements were made over 120 d. There was no difference in DMI between groups (p = 0.67), but average daily gain tended to be higher (p < 0.056) and feed to gain ratio tended to be lower (p = 0.050) in HTR than in CONT yaks. Meat from HTR yaks was more tender (p = 0.006), had higher intramuscular fat (p = 0.013), and had lower cholesterol content (p = 0.009) than from CONT yaks. In addition, the atherogenic index was lower (0.37 vs. 0.43; p = 0.049), the PUFA:SFA ratio was higher (0.55 vs. 0.37; p = 0.049), and the n-6:n-3 (n-6 PUFA to n-3 PUFA) ratio was lower (2.76 vs. 4.78; p = 0.003) in HTR than in CONT yaks, which all favoured the HTR yaks. Meat from HTR yaks met human health standards of a PUFA:SFA ratio of above 0.4 and n-6:n-3 ratio of less than 4, whereas meat from CONT yaks just missed these standards.

Heterotrophic Aurantiochytrium sp. supplementation to layer diets sustainably increases the omega-3 concentration of eggs

1. The consumption of adequate amounts of the long-chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) has been associated with beneficial effects on human health. Eggs are commonly consumed worldwide, and their omega-3 content can be easily altered by changing the diets of laying hens and so represent an important target for enrichment. 2. In this study, the effect of supplementing laying hens with DHA-rich, Aurantiochytrium limacinum at three different inclusion levels was investigated over a 24-week period. 3. Significant increases in egg DHA concentrations were observed after four weeks and were maintained for the duration of the 24-week study. The supplemented eggs in the current study had a DHA content of 82, 101, and 129 mg/yolk when supplemented with 0.25%, 0.5% and 1% treatments, respectively, which meets the EU criteria to be considered 'high in omega-3'. 4. Using the sustainably grown protist Aurantiochytrium limacinum to supplement layer diets increased the egg DHA concentration and decreased the n-6/n-3 ratio, improving the nutritional value of the eggs for human consumers.

Influence of the preparation process on the chemical composition and nutritional value of canned purée of kabuli and Apulian black chickpeas

Chickpeas are classified into two main commercial seed types: desi, and kabuli. Furthermore, the Apulian black is another chickpea type, less common, which has peculiar phenotypic and genetic features and is the object of an increasing attention by geneticists to avoid the risk of genetic erosion. A strategy to increase the consumption of pulses consists in proposing ready-to-eat gastronomic preparations which, however, must keep their natural features and nutritional value as intact as possible. In this paper the influence of the preparation process on the chemical composition and nutritional value of ready-to-eat canned purée of Apulian black chickpeas has been evaluated, in comparison with purée of kabuli chickpeas. Total dietary fiber content was high enough to consider the kabuli chickpea purée as "source of fiber", and the black chickpea purée as "high fiber", in accordance with the current European Regulation on nutrition claims. Along the preparation process, an increase in lipid content was observed. Protein content, instead, showed a different behaviour, i.e. increased in Apulian black chickpea purée and remained constant in kabuli chickpea purée.

The preparation process strongly influenced fatty acid composition. In particular, unsaturated fatty acids decreased in both Apulian black and kabuli chickpea purées, whereas saturated fatty acids significantly increased during processing.

Apulian black chickpeas are particularly rich of bioactive compounds, but the preparation process of purée caused a strong decrease of total carotenoids, anthocyanins and phenolic compounds. However, even after processing, this purée could still be a good source of bioactive compounds.

All these features make canned purée of chickpeas a healthy ready-to-eat food, which is at the same time rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, able to fulfill the time-saving needs of modern lifestyle. These findings could promote a greater use of Apulian black chickpeas and contribute to reduce the risk of genetic erosion.