Development and validation of an analytical method based on QuEChERS followed by UHPLC-ToF-MS for the determination of tropane alkaloids in buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum L.) and buckwheat products

A method was developed for the determination of tropane alkaloids (TAs), including atropine, scopolamine, anisodamine and homatropine in buckwheat and related products. This work presents an optimised methodology based on QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe) extraction procedure followed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the determination of TAs (atropine, scopolamine, anisodamine and homatropine) in buckwheat samples. The analytical methodology was successfully validated, demonstrating good linearity, low limit of quantification, repeatability (RSDr < 15%), inter-day precision (RSDR < 19%) and recovery (74-113%). Finally, 13 commercial samples of buckwheat were analysed and the results demonstrated that they were in compliance with the current European regulations regarding TAs.

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Foods, Herbal Drugs, and Food Supplements: Chemistry, Metabolism, Toxicological Significance, Analytical Methods, Occurrence, and Challenges for Future

Consumers are increasingly seeking natural alternatives to chemical compounds, including the use of dried aromatic plants as seasonings instead of salt. However, the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) in food supplements and dried plants has become a concern because of their link to liver diseases and their classification as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Despite European Union (EU) Regulation (EU) 2023/915, non-compliance issues persist, as indicated by alerts on the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) portal. Analyzing PAs poses a challenge because of their diverse chemical structures and low concentrations in these products, necessitating highly sensitive analytical methods. Despite these challenges, ongoing advancements in analytical techniques coupled with effective sampling and extraction strategies offer the potential to enhance safety measures. These developments aim to minimize consumer exposure to PAs and safeguard their health while addressing the growing demand for natural alternatives in the marketplace.

Active Low-Density Polyethylene-Based Films by Incorporating α-Tocopherol in the Free State and Loaded in PLA Nanoparticles: A Comparative Study

In this work, alpha-tocopherol (α-TOC) was encapsulated in poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles (PLA NPs) and added to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films with the aim of producing an active film for food packaging applications. PLA NPs loaded with α-TOC were produced through nanoprecipitation and dried using two methods (freeze-dryer and oven). LDPE-based films with final polymeric matrix concentrations of 10 and 20 g/kg were then produced through blow extrusion. The results showed that LDPE-based films loaded with α-TOC can be produced using blow extrusion, and a good distribution of PLA NPs can be obtained within the LDPE matrix as observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties were affected by the incorporation of α-TOC and PLA NPs loaded with α-TOC, with the observation of a decrease in tensile strength and Young's Modulus values and an increase in elongation at break. Regarding water vapor permeability, the films showed a reduction in the values with the addition of α-TOC and PLA NPs loaded with α-TOC compared to the LDPE film (control). Films with α-TOC in the free state and loaded in PLA NPs showed antioxidant activity, but their behavior was affected by the encapsulation process.

The entrancing role of dietary polyphenols against the most frequent aging-associated diseases

Aging, a fundamental physiological process influenced by innumerable biological and genetic pathways, is an important driving factor for several aging-associated disorders like diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In the modern era, the several mechanisms associated with aging have been deeply studied. Treatment and therapeutics for age-related diseases have also made considerable advances; however, for the effective and long-lasting treatment, nutritional therapy particularly including dietary polyphenols from the natural origin are endorsed. These dietary polyphenols (e.g., apigenin, baicalin, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, kaempferol, quercetin, resveratrol, and theaflavin), and many other phytochemicals target certain molecular, genetic mechanisms. The most common pathways of age-associated diseases are mitogen-activated protein kinase, reactive oxygen species production, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathways, metal chelation, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and inflammation. Polyphenols slow down the course of aging and help in combatting age-linked disorders. This exemplified in the form of clinical trials on specific dietary polyphenols in various aging-associated diseases. With this context in mind, this review reveals the new insights to slow down the aging process, and consequently reduce some classic diseases associated with age such as aforementioned, and targeting age-associated diseases by the activities of dietary polyphenols of natural origin.

Recent advances in delivering free or nanoencapsulated Curcuma by-products as antimicrobial food additives

Food commodities are often contaminated by microbial pathogens in transit or during storage. Hence, mitigation of these pathogens is necessary to ensure the safety of food commodities. Globally, researchers used botanicals as natural additives to preserve food commodities from bio-deterioration, and advances were made to meet users' acceptance in this domain, as synthetic preservatives are associated with harmful effects to both consumers and environments. Over the last century, the genus Curcuma has been used in traditional medicine, and its crude and nanoencapsulated essential oils (EOs) and curcuminoids were used to combat harmful pathogens that deteriorate stored foods. Today, more research is needed for solving the problem of pathogen resistance in food commodities and to meet consumer demands. Therefore, Curcuma-based botanicals may provide a source of natural preservatives for food commodities that satisfy the needs both of the food industry and the consumers. Hence, this article discusses the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of EOs and curcuminoids derived from the genus Curcuma. Further, the action modes of Curcuma-based botanicals are explained, and the latest advances in nanoencapsulation of these compounds in food systems are discussed alongside knowledge gaps and safety assessment where the focus of future research should be placed.

Ergot Alkaloids on Cereals and Seeds: Analytical Methods, Occurrence, and Future Perspectives

Ergot alkaloids are secondary metabolites resulting from fungi of the genus Claviceps that have proven to be highly toxic. These mycotoxins commonly infect cereal crops such as wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Due to the increase worldwide consumption of cereal and cereal-based products, the presence of ergot alkaloids in food presents a concern for human safety. For this reason, it is essential to develop several analytical methods that allow the detection of these toxic compounds. This review compiles and discusses the most relevant studies and methods used in the detection and quantification of ergot alkaloids. Moreover, the decontamination techniques are also addressed, with special attention to sorting, cleaning, frying, baking, peeling, and ammonization methods, as they are the only ones already applied to ergot alkaloids.

LDPE and PLA Active Food Packaging Incorporated with Lemon by-Products Extract: Preparation, Characterization and Effectiveness to Delay Lipid Oxidation in Almonds and Beef Meat

Low-density polyethylene-based packaging with 4% lemon extract (LDPE/4LE) and two polylactic-based (PLA) packaging materials with 4% and 6% lemon extract (PLA/PEG/4LE and PLA/6LE) were produced. O₂ and water permeability tests were performed, the total and individual phenolic compounds content were measured, and the films' antioxidant activities were determined. The films' ability to delay lipid oxidation was tested in two model foods: almonds, packaged with LDPE/4LE, PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE for a maximum period of 60 days at 40 °C (accelerated assay); and beef meat, packaged with the PLA/6LE for a maximum period of 11 days at 4 °C. The LE improved the WVP in all of the active films by 33%, 20% and 60% for the LDPE/4LE, PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE films, respectively. At the end of 10 days, the migration of phenolic compounds through the PLA films was measured to be 142.27 and 114.9 μg/dm² for the PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE films, respectively, and was significantly higher than phenolic compounds migration measured for the LDPE/4LE (15.97 μg/dm²). Naringenin, apigenin, ferulic acid, eriocitrin, hesperidin and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid were the main identified compounds in the PLA, but only 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, naringenin and p-coumaric acid were identified in the LDPE films. Regarding the films' ability to delay lipid oxidation, LDPE/4LE presented the best results, showing a capacity to delay lipid oxidation in almonds for 30 days. When applied to raw beef meat, the PLA/6LE packaging was able to significantly inhibit lipid oxidation for 6 days, and successfully inhibited total microorganisms' growth until the 8th day of storage.

Antioxidant Capacity and Phenolics Profile of Portuguese Traditional Cultivars of Apples and Pears and Their By-Products: On the Way to Newer Applications

Pears (Pyrus communis L.) and apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) are two of the most popular fruits worldwide. The phenolic compounds they offer are associated with human health benefits due to their antioxidant properties. Since these fruits’ by-products are not yet fully exploited, it is important to characterize them, especially in terms of their antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant properties of old traditional cultivars, six regional pear cultivars and five regional apple cultivars grown in the Alcobaça region (Portugal). Antioxidant capacity assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant properties. Generally, the antioxidant capacity, total phenolics content (TPC), and total flavonoids content (TFC) of fruit byproducts (both seeds and peels) were higher than the corresponding mesocarp, indicating their potential as sources of beneficial antioxidant compounds. Moreover, a UHPLC-ToF-MS method was optimized and validated in order to quantify 21 distinct phenolics in these fruit samples. The analytical method’s suitability for quantifying phenolic compounds was demonstrated by an evaluation of linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, precision and accuracy. This method was used to determine the phenolic composition of samples of regional (local) cultivars. The phenolics in the fruit samples with the highest concentrations were phlorizin and chlorogenic acid. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to separate distinct fruit species while emphasizing their similarities and differences.

The Bright and Dark Sides of Herbal Infusions: Assessment of Antioxidant Capacity and Determination of Tropane Alkaloids

Herbal infusions are highly popular beverages consumed daily due to their health benefits and antioxidant properties. However, the presence of plant toxins, such as tropane alkaloids, constitutes a recent health concern for herbal infusions. This work presents an optimized and validated methodology based on the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) extraction procedure followed by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography combined with Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ToF-MS) for the determination of tropane alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine, anisodamine, and homatropine) in herbal infusions, in accordance with criteria established by Commission Recommendation EU No. 2015/976. One of the seventeen samples was contaminated with atropine, exceeding the current European regulation regarding tropane alkaloids. In addition, this study evaluated the antioxidant capacity of common herbal infusions available on Portuguese markets, indicating the high antioxidant capacity of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and peppermint (Mentha x piperita).

Towards the Sustainable Exploitation of Salt-Tolerant Plants: Nutritional Characterisation, Phenolics Composition, and Potential Contaminants Analysis of Salicornia ramosissima and Sarcocornia perennis alpini

Increasing soil salinisation represents a serious threat to food security, and therefore the exploitation of high-yielding halophytes, such as Salicornia and Sarcocornia, needs to be considered not merely in arid regions but worldwide. In this study, Salicornia ramosissima and Sarcocornia perennis alpini were evaluated for nutrients, bioactive compounds, antioxidant capacity, and contaminants. Both were shown to be nutritionally relevant, exhibiting notable levels of crude fibre and ash, i.e., 11.26-15.34 and 39.46-40.41% dry weight (dw), respectively, and the major minerals were Na, K, and Mg. Total phenolics thereof were 67.05 and 38.20 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g extract dw, respectively, mainly p-coumaric acid and quercetin. Both species displayed antioxidant capacity, but S. ramossima was prominent in both the DPPH and ß-carotene bleaching assays. Aflatoxin B1 was detected in S. ramosissima, at 5.21 µg/Kg dw, which may pose a health threat. The Cd and Pb levels in both were low, but the 0.01 mg/Kg Hg in S. perennis alpini met the maximum legal limit established for marine species including algae. Both species exhibit high potential for use in the agro-food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors, but specific regulations and careful cultivation strategies need to be implemented, in order to minimise contamination risks by mycotoxins and heavy metals.

Health-Promoting Properties and Potential Application in the Food Industry of Citrus medica L. and Citrus × clementina Hort. Ex Tan. Essential Oils and Their Main Constituents

Citrus is an important genus in the Rutaceae family, with high medicinal and economic value, and includes important crops such as lemons, orange, grapefruits, limes, etc. The Citrus species is rich sources of carbohydrates, vitamins, dietary fibre, and phytochemicals, mainly including limonoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and carotenoids. Citrus essential oils (EOs) consist of several biologically active compounds mainly belonging to the monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes classes. These compounds have demonstrated several health-promoting properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Citrus EOs are obtained mainly from peels, but also from leaves and flowers, and are widely used as flavouring ingredients in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. This review focused on the composition and biological properties of the EOs of Citrus medica L. and Citrus clementina Hort. Ex Tan and their main constituents, limonene, γ-terpinene, myrcene, linalool, and sabinene. The potential applications in the food industry have been also described. All the articles available in English or with an abstract in English were extracted from different databases such as PubMed, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct.

Citrus By-Products: Valuable Source of Bioactive Compounds for Food Applications

Citrus production produces about 15 million tons of by-products/waste worldwide every year. Due to their high content of bioactive compounds, several extraction techniques can be applied to obtain extracts rich in valuable compounds and further application into food applications. Distillation and solvent extraction continues to be the most used and applied extraction techniques, followed by newer techniques such as microwave-assisted extraction and pulsed electric field extraction. Although the composition of these extracts and essential oils directly depends on the edaphoclimatic conditions to which the fruit/plant was exposed, the main active compounds are D-limonene, carotenoids, and carbohydrates. Pectin, one of the most abundant carbohydrates present in Citrus peels, can be used as a biodegradable polymer to develop new food packaging, and the extracted bioactive compounds can be easily added directly or indirectly to foods to increase their shelf-life. One of the applications is their incorporation in active food packaging for microbiological and/or oxidation inhibition, prolonging foods' shelf-life and, consequently, contributing to reducing food spoilage. This review highlights some of the most used and effective extraction techniques and the application of the obtained essential oils and extracts directly or indirectly (through active packaging) to foods.

Lupin (Lupinus albus L.) Seeds: Balancing the Good and the Bad and Addressing Future Challenges

Lupinus albus L. (lupine) is a legume whose grain/seed has gained increasing interest. Its recognized nutritional properties, namely a high content of protein, dietary fiber and its low fat content, make lupine a suitable alternative not only for animal protein, but also as a substitute for more processed and less balanced flours from a nutritional point of view, used in the preparation of bread, cakes and cookies, among others. In addition, its nutritional and bioactive compounds have potential benefits for human health in the prevention and treatment of some diseases. However, the existence of some anti-nutritional compounds and contaminants reveal some concern, requiring effective methods for their detection and eventual removal. This review intends to address the potential of lupine (L. albus) in food and human health and to balance the pros and cons. Nutritional and anti-nutritional components of L. albus seeds and possible contaminants of lupine seeds are examined. The potential health benefits of lupine (seeds), including energy metabolism, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, glucose and insulin metabolism, bower function and anticonvulsant action, are discussed based on scientific evidence (both clinical trials and studies performed with animal models).

Effects of feeding 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 with an acidogenic diet during the prepartum period in dairy cows: Mineral metabolism, energy balance, and lactation performance of Holstein dairy cows

Our objective was to determine the effects of feeding 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ [25(OH)D₃], or vitamin D₃ (cholecalciferol) on plasma, mineral, and metabolite concentrations, mineral balance, mineral excretion, rumination, energy balance, and milk production of dairy cows. We hypothesized that supplementing 3 mg/d of 25(OH)D₃ during the prepartum period would be more effective than supplementing vitamin D₃ at the National Research Council (2001) levels to minimize calcium imbalance during the transition period and improve milk production of dairy cows. Forty multiparous, pregnant nonlactating-Holstein cows were enrolled in this study. Body weight, body condition score, parity, and milk yield in the previous lactation (mean ± standard deviation) were 661 ± 59.2, 3.46 ± 0.35, 1.79 ± 0.87, and 33.2 ± 6.43 kg/d, respectively. Cows were enrolled into the blocks (n = 20 for each treatment) at 30 d of the expected day of calving to receive an acidogenic diet (373 g/kg of neutral detergent fiber and 136 g/kg of crude protein, dry matter basis; -110 mEq/kg) associated with the treatments: (1) control (CTRL), vitamin D₃ at 0.625 mg/d (equivalent to 25,000 IU of vitamin D₃/d) or (2) 25(OH)D₃ at 3 mg/d (equivalent to 120,000 IU of vitamin D₃/d). All cows were fed with the base ration for 49 d after calving. Blood samples were taken on d 7, 0, 1, 2, 21, and 42, relative to calving. No effect of treatment was observed for prepartum dry matter intake or body condition score. A trend for increase of ionized Ca was observed for the cows fed 25(OH)D₃, compared with the CTRL, but no effect of treatment was detected for total Ca or total P. Feeding 25(OH)D₃ increased colostrum yield. The plasmatic concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ was increased with 25(OH)D₃ supplementation. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D₃ supplementation increased plasma glucose concentration at parturition. The postpartum dry matter intake was not influenced by treatments. Feeding 25(OH)D₃ increases milk yield, 3.5% fat-corrected milk, and energy-corrected milk and improves milk yield components in early lactation. Overall, these findings suggest that 25(OH)D₃ at 3 mg/d can improve the energy metabolism and lactation performance, compared with the current-feeding practice of supplementing vitamin D₃ at 0.625 mg/d.

Active Flexible Films for Food Packaging: A Review

Active food packaging is a dynamic area where the scientific community and industry have been trying to find new strategies to produce innovative packaging that is economically viable and compatible with conventional production processes. The materials used to develop active packaging can be organized into scavenging and emitting materials, and based on organic and inorganic materials. However, the incorporation of these materials in polymer-based flexible packaging is not always straightforward. The challenges to be faced are mainly related to active agents’ sensitivity to high temperatures or difficulties in dispersing them in the high viscosity polymer matrix. This review provides an overview of methodologies and processes used in the production of active packaging, particularly for the production of active flexible films at the industrial level. The direct incorporation of active agents in polymer films is presented, focusing on the processing conditions and their effect on the active agent, and final application of the packaging material. Moreover, the incorporation of active agents by coating technologies and supercritical impregnation are presented. Finally, the use of carriers to help the incorporation of active agents and several methodologies is discussed. This review aims to guide academic and industrial researchers in the development of active flexible packaging, namely in the selection of the materials, methodologies, and process conditions.

Mycotoxins along the tea supply chain: A dark side of an ancient and high valued aromatic beverage

ABSTRACTSTea (Camellia sinensis L.) is a high valued beverage worldwide since ancient times; more than three billion cups of tea are consumed each day. Leaf extracts of the plant are used for food preservation, cosmetics, and medicinal purposes. Nevertheless, tea contaminated with mycotoxins poses a serious health threat to humans. Mycotoxin production by tea fungi is induced by a variety of factors, including poor processing methods and environmental factors such as high temperature and humidity. This review summarizes the studies published to date on mycotoxin prevalence, toxicity, the effects of climate change on mycotoxin production, and the methods used to detect and decontaminate tea mycotoxins. While many investigations in this domain have been carried out on the prevalence of aflatoxins and ochratoxins in black, green, pu-erh, and herbal teas, much less information is available on zearalenone, fumonisins, and Alternaria toxins. Mycotoxins in teas were detected using several methods; the most commonly used being the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection, followed by HPLC with tandem mass spectrometry, gas chromatography and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Further, mycotoxins decontamination methods for teas included physical, chemical, and biological methods, with physical methods being most prevalent. Finally, research gaps and future directions have also been discussed.

Mycotoxins in Pistachios (Pistacia vera L.): Methods for Determination, Occurrence, Decontamination

The consumption of pistachios (Pistacia vera L.) has been increasing, given their important benefit to human health. In addition to being an excellent nutritional source, they have been associated with chemical hazards, such as mycotoxins, resulting in fungal contamination and its secondary metabolism. Aflatoxins (AFs) are the most common mycotoxins in pistachio and the most toxic to humans, with hepatotoxic effects. More mycotoxins such as ochratoxin A (OTA), fumonisins (FBs), zearalenone (ZEA) and trichothecenes (T2, HT2 and DON) and emerging mycotoxins have been involved in nuts. Because of the low levels of concentration and the complexity of the matrix, the determination techniques must be very sensitive. The present paper carries out an extensive review of the state of the art of the determination of mycotoxins in pistachios, concerning the trends in analytical methodologies for their determination and the levels detected as a result of its contamination. Screening methods based on immunoassays are useful due to their simplicity and rapid response. Liquid chromatography (LC) is the gold standard with new improvements to enhance accuracy, precision and sensitivity and a lower detection limit. The reduction of Aspergillus' and aflatoxins' contamination is important to minimize the public health risks. While prevention, mostly in pre-harvest, is the most effective and preferable measure to avoid mycotoxin contamination, there is an increased number of decontamination processes which will also be addressed in this review.

Development and Validation of QuEChERS Followed by UHPLC-ToF-MS Method for Determination of Multi-Mycotoxins in Pistachio Nuts

Pistachios are one of the types of tree nut fruits with the highest mycotoxin contamination, especially of aflatoxins, worldwide. This study developed a Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) method that was followed by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography combined with Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ToF-MS) for the determination of mycotoxins in pistachios. Different approaches to dispersive solid phase extraction as a clean-up method for high lipid matrices were evaluated. For this, classic sorbents such as C18 (octadecyl-modified silica) and PSA (primary secondary amine), and new classes of sorbents, namely EMR-Lipid (enhanced matrix removal-lipid) and Z-Sep (modified silica gel with zirconium oxide), were used. The QuEChERS method, followed by Z-Sep d-SPE clean-up, provided the best analytical performance for aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2), ochratoxin A (OTA), zearalenone (ZEA), toxin T2 (T2) and toxin HT-2 (HT2) in pistachios. The method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, repeatability, interday precision and recovery; it achieved good results according to criteria imposed by Commission Regulation (EC) no. 401/2006. The method was applied to real samples and the results show that pistachios that are available in Portuguese markets are safe from mycotoxins that are of concern to human health.

The neuroprotective effects of polyphenols, their role in innate immunity and the interplay with the microbiota

Neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in the elderly population, represent one of the most pressing social and health-care problems in the world. Besides the well-established role of both oxidative stress and inflammation, alterations of the immune response have been found to be closely linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Interestingly, various scientific evidence reported that an altered gut microbiota composition may contribute to the development of neuroinflammatory disorders. This leads to the proposal of the concept of the gut-brain-immune axis. In this scenario, polyphenols play a pivotal role due to their ability to exert neuroprotective, immunomodulatory and microbiota-remodeling activities. In the present review, we summarized the available literature to provide a scientific evidence regarding this neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects and the interaction with gut microbiota of polyphenols and, the main signaling pathways involved that can explain their potential therapeutic application in neurodegenerative diseases.

Conifers Phytochemicals: A Valuable Forest with Therapeutic Potential

Conifers have long been recognized for their therapeutic potential in different disorders. Alkaloids, terpenes and polyphenols are the most abundant naturally occurring phytochemicals in these plants. Here, we provide an overview of the phytochemistry and related commercial products obtained from conifers. The pharmacological actions of different phytochemicals present in conifers against bacterial and fungal infections, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are also reviewed. Data obtained from experimental and clinical studies performed to date clearly underline that such compounds exert promising antioxidant effects, being able to inhibit cell damage, cancer growth, inflammation and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, an attempt has been made with the intent to highlight the importance of conifer-derived extracts for pharmacological purposes, with the support of relevant in vitro and in vivo experimental data. In short, this review comprehends the information published to date related to conifers' phytochemicals and illustrates their potential role as drugs.

The Use of Montmorillonite (MMT) in Food Nanocomposites: Methods of Incorporation, Characterization of MMT/Polymer Nanocomposites and Main Consequences in the Properties

BACKGROUND

The clay Montmorillonite (MMT) is among the nanofillers more frequently used in food packaging. The uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in polymers confers considerable improvement of mechanical, thermal, optical, and/or barrier properties in polymer/clay nanocomposites.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to ascertain the state of the art of the use of MMT for packaging purposes, with special emphasis on food applications.

METHODS

A literature review was carried out through recent papers and patents that focused on the incorporation of MMT in polymers.

RESULTS

This review emphasizes the interaction of MMT with polymers and their levels of incorporation in the nanocomposites. This work also highlights the analytical methodologies used for the characterization of the polymer/clay nanocomposites and the main consequences of the fillers in the properties of nanocomposites. Challenges remain about increasing the compatibility between clays and biopolymers to promote their utilization in food packaging. New strategies for immobilization of oxides, enzymes, essential oils, and other bioactive compounds are needed.

CONCLUSION

MMT-based composite materials are promising to be used in intelligent and active packaging.

Portuguese honeys as antimicrobial agents against Candida species

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Honey has been recognized worldwide for its antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Among them, the antifungal properties associated to honey make it an attractive alternative treatment for Candida-associated infections, particularly for topical application to the mucous membranes and skin. In this sense, the main purpose of this work was to evaluate physicochemical properties of five Portuguese honeys and Manuka honey (an Australian honey with well recognized medical proprieties, used as control) and to evaluate the antifungal activity in Candida species planktonic and biofilm assays.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

Pollen analysis, pH determination, color, concentration of protein and methylglyoxal, conductivity, total phenolics and flavonoids, hydrogen peroxide concentration, and characterization by differential scanning calorimetry in honey samples were determined. Additionally, the effect of honeys on planktonic growth of Candida was initially evaluated by determination of the minimum inhibitory concentrations. Then, the same effect of those honeys was evaluated in biofilms, by Colony Forming Units enumeration.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

It has been shown that Portuguese heather (Erica cinereal) honey presented the most similar physicochemical properties to manuka honey (specially phenolic and flavonoids contents). The five Portuguese honeys under study, presented in general a potent activity against planktonic multi-resistant yeast pathogens (several clinical isolates and reference strains of Candida species) and S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria cultures. Additionally, it was also concluded that Portuguese heather honey (50% and 75% (w/v)) can also act as a good Candida species biofilm reducer, namely for C. tropicalis.

Occurrence of Fusarium spp. in Maize Grain Harvested in Portugal and Accumulation of Related Mycotoxins during Storage

Maize is an important worldwide commodity susceptible to fungal contamination in the field, at harvest, and during storage. This work aimed to determine the occurrence of Fusarium spp. in maize grains produced in the Tagus Valley region of Portugal and the levels of related mycotoxins in the 2018 harvest and during their storage for six months in barrels, mimicking silos conditions. Continuous monitoring of temperature, CO2, and relative humidity levels were done, as well as the concentration of mycotoxins were evaluated and correlated with the presence of Fusarium spp. F. verticillioides was identified as the predominant Fusarium species. Zearalenone, deoxynivalenol and toxin T2 were not found at harvest and after storage. Maize grains showed some variability in the levels of fumonisins (Fum B1 and Fum B2). At the harvest, fumonisin B1 ranged from 1297 to 2037 µg/kg, and fumonisin B2 ranged from 411 to 618 µg/kg. Fumonisins showed a tendency to increase (20 to 40%) during six months of storage. Although a correlation between the levels of fumonisins and the monitoring parameters was not established, CO2 levels may be used to predict fungal activity during storage. The composition of the fungal population during storage may predict the incidence of mycotoxins.

Diversity of Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae (Diptera: Oestroidea) in a Mangrove, Restinga, and Forest Landscapes From a Lagoon Complex on an Atlantic Forest Coastline (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Diptera Mesembrinellidae present great ecological importance as potential bioindicators and Calliphoridae stand out for their medical-sanitary importance as potential vectors of pathogens and causes of human and animal diseases such as myiasis. They beneficially aid in elucidating crimes in forensic entomology, contributing to determine the postmortem interval (PMI) and assisting in the healing process of necrotic wounds in larval therapy. This study aimed to inventory the Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae fauna in order to evaluate structural parameters and to apply faunal indexes in catching species in the Itaipu-Piratininga lagoon complex, in Niterói (Rio de Janeiro), Brazil. The collections were carried out monthly from September 2015 to August 2016 with fish bait (sardines) exposed for 48 h, totaling six traps installed in three physiognomies (mangrove, ombrophilous forest, and restinga). In total, 9,773 individuals were captured, divided into two families, five genera, and 11 species. Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) was the predominant species, while Mesembrinella bellardiana (Aldrich, 1922) was the least representative species, indicating the preservation level of this ecosystem. Ombrophilous forest was the physiognomy with greater diversity and restinga was the physiognomy with greater species dominance. The similarity index indicated greater similarity among the mangrove and restinga populations.

Evaluation of the status quo of polyphenols analysis: Part II-Analysis methods and food processing effects

Nowadays due to the concern with the environmental impact of analytical techniques and in order to reduce the ecological footprint there is a tendency to use more efficient and faster procedures that use a smaller amount of organic solvents. Polyphenols have been widely studied in plant-based matrices due to their wide and potent biological properties; however there are no standardized procedures both for sample preparation and analysis of these compounds. The second of a two-part review will carry out a critical review of the extraction procedures and analytical methods applied to polyphenols and their selection criteria over a wide range of factors in relation to commerce-associated, environmental, and economic factors. It is foreseen that in the future the analysis of polyphenols in plant-based matrices includes the use of techniques that allow the simultaneous determination of different subclasses of polyphenols using fast, sophisticated, and automated techniques that allow the minimal consumption of solvents.

Evaluation of the status quo of polyphenols analysis: Part I-phytochemistry, bioactivity, interactions, and industrial uses

Phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, are gaining more attention from both the scientific community and food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries due to their implications in human health. In this line, lately new applications have emerged, and of great importance is the selection of accurate and reliable analytical methods for better evaluation of the quality of the end-products, which depends on diverse process variables as well as on the matrices and on the physicochemical properties of different polyphenols. The first of a two-part review on polyphenols will address the phytochemistry and biological activities of different classes of polyphenols including flavonoids, lignans and flavanolignans, stilbenoids, tannins, curcuminoids, and coumarins. Moreover, the possible interactions of polyphenols and current and potential industrial applications of polyphenols are discussed.

Map kinase signaling as therapeutic target for neurodegeneration

Aging is known to be one of the major risk factors in many neurodegenerative diseases (ND) whose prevalence is estimated to rise in the coming years due to the increase in life expectancy. Examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases, along with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Spinocerebellar ataxias and Frontotemporal Dementia. Given that so far these ND do not have effective pharmacological therapies, a better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms can contribute to development of effective treatments. During the previous decade, the data indicated that dysregulation of MAP kinases [which included c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), and p38] are associated with several stages of the inflammatory process which in turn contributes to age-related neurodegenerative diseases. This evidence suggests that control of inflammation through regulation of MAP kinase could be a worthwhile approach against neurodegenerative diseases. In this review we summarize the pathways of MAP kinase signal transduction and different pharmacological inhibitors that can be used in its modulation against ND.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.) and its active constituents: A critical review of their efficacy and toxicological issues

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.) is a medicinal plant widely used in various traditional systems of medicine and as a food supplement. It has been traditionally used by Native Americans as a coloring agent and as medicinal remedy for common diseases and conditions like wounds, digestive disorders, ulcers, skin and eye ailments, and cancer. Over the years, goldenseal has become a popular food supplement in the USA and other regions. The rhizome of this plant has been used for the treatment of a variety of diseases including, gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, muscular debility, nervous prostration, constipation, skin and eye infections, cancer, among others. Berberine is one of the most bioactive alkaloid that has been identified in different parts of goldenseal. The goldenseal extract containing berberine showed numerous therapeutic effects such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, antioxidant, neuroprotective (anti-Alzheimer's disease), cardioprotective, and gastrointestinal protective. Various research finding suggest the health promoting effects of goldenseal components and their extracts. However, few studies have also suggested the possible neurotoxic, hepatotoxic and phototoxic activities of goldenseal extract and its alkaloids. Thus, large randomized, double-blind clinical studies need to be conducted on goldenseal supplements and their main alkaloids to provide more evidence on the mechanisms responsible for the pharmaceutical activity, clinical efficacy and safety of these products. Thus, it is very important to review the scientific information about goldenseal to understand about the current scenario.

Natural products, PGC-1 , and Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a transcriptional coactivator that binds to a diverse range of transcription factors. PPARγ coactivator 1 (PGC-1) coactivators possess an extensive range of biological effects in different tissues, and play a key part in the regulation of the oxidative metabolism, consequently modulating the production of reactive oxygen species, autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Owing to these findings, a large body of studies, aiming to establish the role of PGC-1 in the neuromuscular system, has shown that PGC-1 could be a promising target for therapies targeting neuromuscular diseases. Among these, some evidence has shown that various signaling pathways linked to PGC-1α are deregulated in muscular dystrophy, leading to a reduced capacity for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In the light of these results, any intervention aimed at activating PGC-1 could contribute towards ameliorating the progression of muscular dystrophies. PGC-1α is influenced by different patho-physiological/pharmacological stimuli. Natural products have been reported to display modulatory effects on PPARγ activation with fewer side effects in comparison to synthetic drugs. Taken together, this review summarizes the current knowledge on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, focusing on the potential effects of natural compounds, acting as regulators of PGC-1α.

Electrodialytic removal of tungsten and arsenic from secondary mine resources - Deep eutectic solvents enhancement

Tungsten is a critical raw material for European and U.S. economies. Tungsten mine residues, usually considered an environmental burden due to e.g. arsenic content, are also secondary tungsten resources. The electrodialytic (ED) process and deep eutectic solvents (DES) have been successfully and independently applied for the extraction of metals from different complex environmental matrices. In this study a proof of concept demonstrates that coupling DES in a two-compartment ED set-up enhances the removal and separation of arsenic and tungsten from Panasqueira mine secondary resources. Choline chloride with malonic acid (1:2), and choline chloride with oxalic acid (1:1) were the DES that in batch extracted the average maximum contents of arsenic (16%) and tungsten (9%) from the residues. However, when ED was operated at a current intensity of 100 mA for 4 days, the extraction yields increased 22% for arsenic and 11% for tungsten, comparing to the tests with no current. From the total arsenic and tungsten extracted, 82% and 77% respectively were successfully removed from the matrix compartment, as they electromigrated to the anolyte compartment, from where these elements can be further separated. This achievement potentiates circular economy, as the final treated residue could be incorporated in construction materials production, mitigating current environmental problems in both mining and construction sectors.

Almonds (Prunus Dulcis Mill. D. A. Webb): A Source of Nutrients and Health-Promoting Compounds

Almonds (Prunus dulcis Miller D. A. Webb (the almond or sweet almond)), from the Rosaceae family, have long been known as a source of essential nutrients; nowadays, they are in demand as a healthy food with increasing popularity for the general population and producers. Studies on the composition and characterization of almond macro- and micronutrients have shown that the nut has many nutritious ingredients such as fatty acids, lipids, amino acids, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, as well as secondary metabolites. However, several factors affect the nutritional quality of almonds, including genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, investigations evaluating the effects of different factors on the quality of almonds were also included. In epidemiological studies, the consumption of almonds has been associated with several therapeutically and protective health benefits. Clinical studies have verified the modulatory effects on serum glucose, lipid and uric acid levels, the regulatory role on body weight, and protective effects against diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, recent researchers have also confirmed the prebiotic potential of almonds. The present review was carried out to emphasize the importance of almonds as a healthy food and source of beneficial constituents for human health, and to assess the factors affecting the quality of the almond kernel. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SciFinder were used to investigate previously published articles on almonds in terms of components and bioactivity potentials with a particular focus on clinical trials.

Immunization with the recombinant myosin regulatory light chain (FhrMRLC) in Adjuplex® adjuvant elicits a Th1-biased immune response and a reduction of parasite burden in Fasciola hepatica infected rats

The aim of this study was to assess the immune response and the protective efficacy elicited by the vaccination with the recombinant Fasciola hepatica myosin regulatory light chain (FhrMRLC) in Adjuplex® adjuvant against the infection with F. hepatica in rats. Four groups of 15 animals each were used for the study, one group was immunized with the recombinant F. hepatica MRLC in Adjuplex® adjuvant and the other groups remained as adjuvant, positive and negative control groups. The parasitological study showed that a statistically significant reduction of 65.1% and 82.1% in fluke burden and fecal egg count, respectively, was detected in vaccinated animals. In addition, vaccination with FhrMRLC induced a well-defined humoral and cellular immune response characterized by a significant production of specific IgG and IL-2, IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-γ; which confirms the immunogenic capacity of the FhrMRLC.

Whole-cell biocatalytic, enzymatic and green chemistry methods for the production of resveratrol and its derivatives

Resveratrol and the biosynthetically related stilbenes are plant secondary metabolites with diverse pharmacological effects. The versatile functions of these compounds in plant defense mechanisms as phytoalexins on one hand, and in human health as potential pharmaceutical agents on the other, have attracted lots of interest in recent years to understand their biosynthetic pathways and their biological properties. Because of difficulties in obtaining resveratrol and its glucosylated derivatives as well as oligomeric forms in sufficient amounts for evaluation of their activity by plant sourcing or total synthesis, biotechnology may provide a competitive approach for the large-scale and low cost production of biologically active stilbenes. Additionally, one major limitation in the use of resveratrol and related aglycone derivatives as therapeutic agents is associated with their inherent poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability. This article examines approaches for the synthesis of potential pharmacologically resveratrol derivatives in vivo by exploiting whole microorganisms, enzymatic and biocatalytic approaches allowing their full utilization for medicine, food and cosmetic applications. These methods also have the advantage of enabling the one-step production of stilbene compounds, compared to the time-consuming and environmentally unfriendly procedures used for their total synthesis or their extraction from plants. Increasing the desired products yield and biological activity through glucosylation (β-D-glucosides versus α-D-glucosides) and oligomerization methodologies of resveratrol including green chemistry methods in organic solvent-free media are discussed as well.

P2516Cardiac rehabilitation program - experience and outcomes in a tertiary center

Introduction

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are effective in improving functional capacity and reducing mortality. The level of adherence to them seems to be less than the ideal, and some factors can predict non-compliance with impact on outcomes.

Purpose

The aim was to characterize the population of the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) appointment, determine factors predictive of compliance with the standard CR exercise program and evaluate the benefits of the program.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients in a CR appointment at a single center between 2014 and 2017. Patients (P) were divided into two groups: compliance >80% of the program (GI) and non-compliance (GII). We assessed clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic characteristics and determined predictors for compliance and compared the follow-up to date.

Results

270P (83% men) were included, with a mean age of 57 years. The P had a median follow up of 35 months, with an interquartil interval of 28 months. The majority (92.5%) had at least one cardiovascular risk factor (25.1% diabetes, 57.1% hypertension, 72.8% dyslipidemia, 75.8% obesity or weight excess, with mean body mass index (BMI) 27.3±3.46, 16.7% family history, 19.8% acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 48.2% smoking). 99% of the patients were medicated (93.7% acetylsalicylic acid, 67.3% clopidogrel, 24.1% ticagrelor, 95.6% beta-blocker, 93.7% ACEI/ARB, 95.5% statin). 144P (53.3%) were not from Lisbon. Most patients (77%) were referred after AMI, 8.9% with heart failure (HF), 8.5% with stable or unstable coronary disease and 1.9% with valvulopathy. 69P (25.6%) attended >80% of the CR program. Death occurred in 4.4% of the P (71.4% cardiovascular causes) and 27% had at least 1 hospitalization. Age, sex, economic insufficiency and residence local (Lisbon or non-Lisbo) were not predictors of non-compliance (p=0.859, p=0.656, p=0.914 and p=0.515 respectively). Predictors of non-compliance were higher IMC (CC=-0.141, p=0.014), higher cholesterol (CC=-0.140, p=0.016), higher C reactive protein (CC=-0.120, p=0.043), higher HbA1c (CC=-0.170, p=0.008) and CR for heart failure (HF) (OR = 0.715, IC [0.659–0.775], p=0.002). Of these, higher HbA1C (p=0.018) and CR for HF (p=0.034) were independent predictors. Compliance with>80% of the program was associated with lower overall mortality (OR = 0.732, IC [0.679–0.788], p=0.037), but not as an independent factor (p=0.378). The only independent predictor of mortality were BNP (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Of the patients referred to the CR consultation one fourth concludes the program. Several factors can predict non-compliance, with higher HbA1c and CR for HF being independent predictors. Compliance with the CR program is associated with lower overall mortality.

P2510Cardiorespiratory optimal point as a predictor of outcomes in patients enrolled in a cardiac rehabilitation program

Introduction

The cardiopulmonary exercise test (CEPT) allows the evaluation of peak and sub-maximal tolerance to the effort, giving us relevant information for clinical decisions. Evidence has emerged that Cardiorespiratory Optimal Point (COP)>30, calculated as the minimum ratio between ventilation and oxygen (VE/VO2) may be a good predictor of events.

Purpose

The aim was to characterize the population of the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) appointment that performed CEPT, evaluate COP as a predictor of events and determine the best cut off for our population.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of CR appointment patients who performed CEPT between 2014 and 2017 in a single center. We compared the mortality and hospitalizations according to COP and COP>30. We established the appropriate Cut Off for our population and compared the same with the occurrence of events.

Results

207Patients (P) (83.6% men) were included, with a mean age of 57 years. The mean COP was 23.6±5.8 (IC [24.06–25.66]). 15.9% P had COP >30 and 33.8% had COP<22. The majority (96.6%) had a cardiovascular disease or risk factors and 99% were medicated. The majority (87.9%) was referred for CR with isquemic cardiopathy (AMI or stable or unstable coronary disease), 9.2% with heart failure (HF) and 9.2% with valvulopathy. 6.9% P died from any cause, 33.8% had an hospitalization (78.6% from a cardiovascular reason). Higher COP values correlated with higher number of all causes hospitalizations (H) (CC = 0.123, p=0.032), cardiovascular H (CC = 0.123, p=0.032), heart failure H (CC = 0.189, p=0.001) and device placement H (CC = 0.173, p=0.003). COP did not correlate with mortality (p=0.453). The cut off of 30 only correlated with HF hospitalization in this population (OR = 5, IC [1.429–17.494] p=0.006). In our population, COP was a good predictor for all cause H and heart failure H (AUC = 0.8 in both). A cut off of 25 had a sensitivity (S) of 78% with a specificity (E) of 70% for all cause hospitalization and S 73% and E 68% for heart failure H. Values above this cut off correlate with more all cause H (OR = 1,928, IC [1.06–3.507], p=0.031) and heart failure H (OR = 5.63, IC [1,44–21.94]), p=0.006). COP was an independent predictor of all-cause H (p=0.018) and heart failure H (p<0.0001). Other independent predictors of HF hospitalization are BNP (p=0.0011) and ejection fraction (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

COP was a good independent predictor of all-cause hospitalizations and HF hospitalization. In our population the cut off 25 for COP had the greatest S and E for predicting events. In our population this factor was not a good predictor of mortality.

Targeting NF-κB signaling pathway in cancer by dietary polyphenols

Being a transcription factor, NF-κB regulates gene expressions involving cell survival and proliferation, drug resistance, metastasis, and angiogenesis. The activation of NF-κB plays a central role in the development of inflammation and cancer. Thus, the down-regulation of NF-κB may be an exciting target in prevention and treatment of cancer. NF-κB could act as a tumor activator or tumor suppressant decided by the site of action (organ). Polyphenols are widely distributed in plant species, consumption of which have been documented to negatively regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway. They depress the phosphorylation of kinases, inhibit NF-κB translocate into the nucleus as well as interfere interactions between NF-κB and DNA. Through inhibition of NF-κB, polyphenols downregulate inflammatory cascade, induce apoptosis and decrease cell proliferation and metastasis. This review highlights the anticancer effects of polyphenols on the basis of NF-κB signaling pathway regulation.