FTIR studies of gluten matrix dehydration after fibre polysaccharide addition

FTIR spectroscopy was used to determine changes in secondary structure, as well as water state, in gluten and model doughs supplemented by four fibre polysaccharides (microcrystalline cellulose, inulin, apple pectin and citrus pectin). The gluten and model doughs were obtained from commercially available wheat gluten and model flour, respectively. The polysaccharides were used in five concentrations: 3%, 6%, 9%, 12% and 18%. Analysis of the FTIR spectra indicated that polysaccharides could be divided into two groups: first - microcrystalline cellulose and inulin, second - apple and citrus pectins that induced opposite structural changes. Changes in secondary structure concern mainly β-sheets and β-turns that form aggregated β-structures, suggesting dehydration of the gluten matrix as a result of competition for water between gluten proteins and polysaccharides. Moreover, the positive band at ca. 1226 cm^-1 in the spectra of pectin-modified samples indicates formation of 'ether' type hydrogen bonds between gluten proteins and pectins.

Dietary Fiber-Induced Changes in the Structure and Thermal Properties of Gluten Proteins Studied by Fourier Transform-Raman Spectroscopy and Thermogravimetry

Interactions between gluten proteins and dietary fiber supplements at the stage of bread dough formation are crucial in the baking industry. The dietary fiber additives are regarded as a source of polysaccharides and antioxidants, which have positive effects on human health. The fiber enrichment of bread causes a significant reduction in its quality, which is connected with changes in the structure of gluten proteins. Changes in the structure of gluten proteins and their thermal properties induced by seven commercial dietary fibers (fruit, vegetable, and cereal) were studied by FT-Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetry (TGA), respectively. For this aim the bread dough at 500 FU consistency was made of a blend of wheat starch and wheat gluten as well as the fiber, the content of which ranged from 3 to 18% w/w. The obtained results revealed that all dietary fibers apart from oat caused similar changes in the secondary structure of gluten proteins. The most noticeable changes were observed in the regions connected with hydrogen-bonded β-sheets (1614 and 1684 cm(-1)) and β-turns (1640 and 1657 cm(-1)). Other changes observed in the gluten structure, concerning other β-structures, conformation of disulfide bridges, and aromatic amino acid microenvironment, depend on the fibers' chemical composition. The results concerning structural changes suggested that the observed formation of hydrogen bonds in the β-structures can be connected with aggregation or abnormal folding. This hypothesis was confirmed by thermogravimetric results. Changes in weight loss indicated the formation of a more complex and strong gluten network.

Raman studies of gluten proteins aggregation induced by dietary fibres

Interactions between gluten proteins and dietary fibre preparations are crucial in the baking industry. The addition of dietary fibre to bread causes significant reduction in its quality which is influenced by changes in the structure of gluten proteins. Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy was applied to determine changes in the structure of gluten proteins modified by seven dietary fibres. The commercially available gluten proteins without starch were mixed with the fibres in three concentrations: 3%, 6% and 9%. The obtained results showed that all fibres, regardless of their origin, caused the same kind of changes i.e. decrease in the α-helix content with a simultaneous increase in the content of antiparallel-β-sheet. The results indicated that presence of cellulose was the probable cause of these changes, and lead to aggregation or abnormal folding of the gluten proteins. Other changes observed in the gluten structure concerning β-structures, conformation of disulphide bridges, and aromatic amino acid environment, depended on the fibres chemical composition.

Effects of Physical and Chemical Factors on the Structure of Gluten, Gliadins and Glutenins as Studied with Spectroscopic Methods

This review presents applications of spectroscopic methods, infrared and Raman spectroscopies in the studies of the structure of gluten network and gluten proteins (gliadins and glutenins). Both methods provide complimentary information on the secondary and tertiary structure of the proteins including analysis of amide I and III bands, conformation of disulphide bridges, behaviour of tyrosine and tryptophan residues, and water populations. Changes in the gluten structure can be studied as an effect of dough mixing in different conditions (e.g., hydration level, temperature), dough freezing and frozen storage as well as addition of different compounds to the dough (e.g., dough improvers, dietary fibre preparations, polysaccharides and polyphenols). Additionally, effect of above mentioned factors can be determined in a common wheat dough, model dough (prepared from reconstituted flour containing only wheat starch and wheat gluten), gluten dough (lack of starch), and in gliadins and glutenins. The samples were studied in the hydrated state, in the form of powder, film or in solution. Analysis of the studies presented in this review indicates that an adequate amount of water is a critical factor affecting gluten structure.

Eicosanoids in exhaled breath condensate and BAL fluid of patients with sarcoidosis

BACKGROUND

Measurement of inflammatory mediators in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is an easy and noninvasive diagnostic method, which has gained popularity in the past few years. However, the source of these mediators is not precisely defined. It has been only presumed that inflammatory cells present in the airway lumen are the main source. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify the relationship between EBC and BAL fluid (BALF) eicosanoids, and the percentage, number, and activity of cells in BALF.

METHODS

In 28 sarcoidosis patients and 17 healthy subjects, 8-isoprostane, cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) were measured in EBC by enzyme immunoassay. Eicosanoids were also examined in BALF in the study group. Cell count, percentage, and superoxide production by BALF cells were estimated.

RESULTS

The mean (+/- SEM) CysLT and 8-isoprostane concentrations were higher in the sarcoidosis group (6.5 +/- 0 vs 27.82 +/- 6.65 pg/mL, respectively; and 2.67 +/- 0.16 vs 13.95 +/- 2.59 pg/mL, respectively). There were positive correlations between EBC and BALF 8-isoprostane concentration (r = 0.68, p < 0.0001) and LTB4 concentration (r = 0.43; p = 0.026). EBC LTB4 levels correlated with the number of lymphocytes per milliliter of BALF. The percentage and number of eosinophils in BALF correlated with EBC 8-isoprostane and BALF CysLT concentrations. No positive correlation was found between concentrations of EBC eicosanoids and percentages BALF lymphocytes, BALF macrophages, or superoxide production.

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of 8-isoprostane and CysLT are elevated in EBC in sarcoidosis patients; however, a lack of correlation with BALF lymphocyte percentage does not encourage us to recommend the measurement of eicosanoids as activity markers. The positive correlation of EBC 8-isoprostane and BALF CysLT concentrations with the percentage of eosinophils in BALF, and the higher percentage of eosinophils in BALF from patients with grade 3 sarcoidosis, may suggest the possible prognostic value.

Dietary Intake of Toxic Heavy Metals with Major Groups of Food Products-Results of Analytical Determinations

Food contains a complex matrix of various substances, including essential nutrients, non-nutritive substances, and toxins, including metals. The main purpose of the study was to evaluate the contribution of major groups of food products to an overall intake of toxic heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg, and Ni) using a combination of the 24-dietary recall technique, the ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry) method, and chemometric tools. The obtained results reveal that there is a high potential risk of developing nephrotoxicity through the dietary intake of Pb in the case of both genders. The dietary intake determined for other elements (Cd, Hg, and Ni) was far below the limits established by European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) supported analytical determinations and revealed that cereals and vegetables were major contributors to a total intake of Cd (39.6 and 17.4% of the total exposure, respectively), Ni (40.4 and 19.3%), and Hg (16.8 and 19.6%), while water and beverages were major dietary sources of Pb (31% of the total daily intake). In contrast, eggs, fats and oils, and milk and dairy products provided the smallest amounts of Cd, Pb, and Ni. Despite containing high amounts of Hg, considering very low consumption, fish were not found to be an important source of this element.

Total mercury levels in the muscle and liver of livestock and game animals in Poland, 2009-2018

The bioaccumulation of mercury (Hg) in the food chain may pose a threat to human health. The risk of dietary Hg intake is mostly caused by the consumption of fish and seafood, therefore the knowledge on the exposure from land animal products is limited. In our article, we summarized the results of analyses of Hg in muscle tissue and liver of different livestock and game animals obtained during ten years of official monitoring that was carried out in Poland from 2009 to 2018. The majority of the results in muscle tissue were below the limits of quantification (LOQs). The mean Hg concentrations in muscle tissue ranged from 0.6 to 5.6 μg kg^-1 of wet weight and the mean liver Hg concentrations were within the range of 0.8-16.4 μg kg^-1 of wet weight, with lowest levels in chickens and highest in wild boars. The results revealed decreasing trends in liver Hg in cattle and cervids over the years, which was congruous with decreasing emission of Hg in Europe. Our results showed that the consumption of meat and liver of livestock and game animals in Poland may be considered to be safe for human health, which was confirmed by the low number of noncompliant samples relative to the applicable legal limits, as well as by estimated dietary exposure.

Identification of Volatile Organic Compounds and Their Concentrations Using a Novel Method Analysis of MOS Sensors Signal

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are natural markers useful in rapid assessment of adverse changes occurring in biological material. The use of an electronic nose seems to be a good, fast, and cheap method to determine particular VOCs. This paper presents a new method determination for VOCs and their concentration based on three sensorgram parameters: maximum of normalized sensor response, reaction time, and cleaning time measured from the end of the test to the half value of the maximum of normalized sensor response. The novelty of the method consists in the use for the first time of two parameters: reaction time and cleaning time measured from the end of the test to the half value of the maximum of normalized sensor response. The VOC sensorgrams at different VOC concentrations (26 to 3,842 ppm) were measured by an electronic nose Food Volatile Compound Analyzer (Agrinose) equipped with eight metal oxide semiconductor sensors dedicated to detect different gases. In the present studies, only six sensors that best respond to the VOCs were used. The highest responses to VOCs were obtained for two sensors-TGS2602 and AS-MLV-P2. The results showed that the dependence between the sensorgram parameters on VOC concentration was well described by a logarithmic curve in the whole range of concentrations. Detailed analysis revealed that the cleaning time increases with an increase in the number of carbon atoms in aliphatic molecules. The principal component analysis (PCA) was used to verify the utility of the new three parameters method in VOCs differentiation. The PCA analysis of these parameters showed that maximum of the normalized sensor response alone, which has been used for identification of particular VOCs so far, could not be regarded as a good parameter used for this purpose. Application of all the three parameters gave the best results in VOC identification. The research indicates that the use of three parameters of a volatile compound instead of only one parameter can allow precise determination of substances. Moreover, the results indicate that the analyzed parameters depend on the chemical structure of VOCs.

A Novel Method for Generation of a Fingerprint Using Electronic Nose on the Example of Rapeseed Spoilage

The paper presents application of a new three-parameter method for identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and creation of fingerprints based on the impregnation time (t_IM ), cleaning time (t_CL ), and maximum response ([ΔR/R]_max ) of chemically sensing sensors for detecting spoilage of agricultural commodities. The novelty of this method consists in the use of two additional parameters: an impregnation time and a cleaning time for the first time. An Agrinose built of eight metal oxide semiconductors was used for identification of loss in the rapeseed quality during a short period of storage after harvest. Principal component analysis was applied as a method of data analysis to verify the suitability of the new three-parameter method and visualization of groups of different quality of raw materials. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra for identification of the infrared bands of fungal polysaccharides and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the headspace was applied to describe volatile metabolite contents in reference to the electronic nose technique. The investigations and analyses have demonstrated that the new three-parameter method for determination of volatile compounds ([ΔR/R]_max , t_IM , t_CL ) describes the changes in VOCs more efficiently than the single-parameter approach based only on the maximum sensor response ([ΔR/R]_max ). The proposed method for generation of electronic fingerprints clearly discriminated between rapeseed samples infected with field and storage microflora. Three-parameters method can be useful for quality control in food microbiology and safety, as a rapid method of analysis and detection, including electronic nose sensor technology. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The use of the proposed method for generation of fingerprints requires no interference with the hardware of the electronic nose but necessitates modification of the software only. This facilitates implementation of the three-parameter method in available devices. This kind of methods and devices can be useful for example in storage process with active ventilation.

Investigation of viscoelastic behaviour of rice-field bean gluten-free dough using the biophysical characterization of proteins and starch: a FT-IR study

Gluten-free bread making success is closely linked to the biophysical behaviour of dough. Quality of these doughs is largely determined by the properties of their proteins and starch. This study aimed to explain, at the structural level the rheological behaviour of gluten-free rice-field bean dough compared to that of soft wheat. The conformational aspects of proteins and starch were studied using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Doughs of soft wheat, rice, field bean, mixture of rice-field bean flour and the same mixture where a portion of rice flour underwent hydrothermal treatment were studied. The results show that viscous and viscoelastic components of gluten-free doughs were changed by supplementation of rice with field bean flour. Most of gluten-free doughs possessed a higher storage modulus in comparison with soft wheat dough. Analysis of FT-IR spectra in the amide I region conveyed to find the differences relative to soft wheat flour dough showed that in non-gluten doughs the increase in β-sheet content was observed at the expense of β-turns. These results were confirmed by amide I deconvolution. Gluten-free doughs contained more β-sheet structure as compared to soft wheat dough and less β-turns inducing high structuralization level that characterized this type of dough matrix. Concerning starch, the supplementation with rice-field bean generated the reorganization of field bean and rice doughs starches approaching that of wheat dough.

Musculoskeletal pain among Polish music school students

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence and intensity of musculoskeletal pain and to estimate probability of developing playing-related musculoskeletal disorders, depending on risk factors, including gender, years of playing the musical instrument, frequency of practice (number of days per week), average daily practice time, and habitual physical activity level, in young instrumentalists.

METHODS

A total of 225 instrumentalists aged 10-18 years, including 107 string-players, 64 keyboardists, and 54 wind-players, were investigated. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) together with a numerical visual-analogue pain intensity scale (VAS) was used to assess the participants' musculoskeletal pain.

RESULTS

The young instrumentalists most often complained of pain located in the neck (60.4%), wrists (44.4%), and upper (41.7%) and lower back (38.2%) areas. Girls complained of musculoskeletal pain significantly more often than the boys. A probability of the pain symptoms was increased with each consecutive year of practice (OR 1.135; 95%CI 1.021-1.261).

CONCLUSIONS

Musculoskeletal pain in various body parts had already commenced at a young age in our sample of music students, and there was a gender difference (girls were more often affected). Results of our study suggest that an early prophylaxis of playing-related musculoskeletal disorders is needed among young musicians playing the various instruments.

Changes in the bioelement content of summer and winter western honeybees (Apis mellifera) induced by Nosema ceranae infection

Proper bioelement content is crucial for the health and wellness of all organisms, including honeybees. However, the situation is more complicated in these important pollinators due to the fact that they change their physiology during winter in order to survive the relatively harsh climatic conditions. Additionally, honeybees are susceptible to many diseases such as nosemosis, which during winter can depopulate an entire colony. Here we show that summer bees have a markedly higher content of important bioelements such as: Al, Cu, P, V, (physiologically essential); Ca, K, Mg, (electrolytic); Cr, Se, Zn, (enzymatic); As, Hg, (toxic). In contrast, a markedly higher content of: Fe (physiologically essential); Mn, Ni, (enzymatic); Cd (exclusively toxic) were present in winter bees. Importantly, N. ceranae infection resulted in an increased honeybee bioelement content of: S, Sr (physiologically essential) and Pb (exclusively toxic), whereas the Nosema-free worker-bees had higher amounts of B and Si (physiologically essential). We propose that the shortages of Fe, Mn, Ni, and Na observed in Nosema-infected bees, could be the reason for the higher mortality of Nosema-infected bees throughout overwintering. In addition, a shortage of bioelements such as B and Si may be a reason for accelerated aging in foragers that is observed following N. ceranae infection. Therefore, in winter, bioelement content was more strongly affected by N. ceranae infection than during summer. We found a strong correlation between the bioelement content of bees and seasons (summer or winter) and also with Nosema infection. We conclude that the balance of bioelements in the honeybee is altered by both seasonal affects and by Nosema infection.

The relationship between meeting of recommendations on physical activity for health and perceived work ability among white-collar workers

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between meeting recommendations on physical activity for health in leisure-time and the ability to work among Polish white-collar workers.

METHODS

The study used a cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 360 white-collar workers. Participants recorded 7-day physical activity logs, including form, duration and intensity of leisure-time physical activities. The results were compared to health recommendations. A standardized Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaire was used in assessing the ability to work.

RESULTS

Participants who met health recommendations achieved higher scores of the WAI (mean score = 41.93) in comparison to those who were not sufficiently physically active (mean score = 39.35) (p < .001). The results of binary logistic regression show that meeting health-related physical activity recommendations almost double the odds of reaching at least good work ability (OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.12-3.36).

CONCLUSIONS

Meeting leisure-time physical activity recommendations (especially the criterion of vigorous physical activity) is significantly related to higher self-assessed ability to work among white-collar workers.

Influence of functional movement rehabilitation on quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease

[Purpose] Parkinson's disease is one of the most frequent diseases of the central nervous system. Thorough knowledge of reasons for movement defects may contribute to the ability to quality of life at a good level as far as motor abilities are concerned. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of functional movement rehabilitation on the degree of intensity of movement symptoms in Parkinson's disease. [Subjects] The research was carried out in people diagnosed with stage III Parkinson's disease, according to the Hoehn and Yahr scale classification. [Methods] In order to establish the clinical state of patients, parts I, II, and III of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living scale, and the quality of life in Parkinson's disease questionnaire were applied. The intervention group took part in 60 minutes of functional movement rehabilitation twice a week for a period of 15 weeks. The main emphasis was placed on the ability to cope with everyday activities. [Results] A significant difference in scores for the given scales between before and after research the intervention period was observed in the intervention group. [Conclusion] The obtained results revealed positive that the influence of applied rehabilitation program had a positive influence on the degree of intensity of movement symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease.

Adherence to physical activity guidelines and functional fitness of elderly women, using objective measurement

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Physical activity is an important factor in maintaining the health and functional fitness of elderly people. The aim of the study was to determine the number of senior women meeting the physical activity guidelines, and their level of functional fitness in comparison to women who are not sufficiently physically active.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 61 women, aged 60-75. Physical activity was monitored on seven consecutive days of the week, using a triaxial accelerometer ActiGraph GT3X. Results of the assessment of physical activity were verified against the Global Recommendations of Physical Activity for Health. The Senior Fitness Test (Fullerton Test) was used to evaluate functional fitness.

RESULTS

In the studied group, 36.1% achieved the recommended level of physical activity. All those examined mainly undertook physical activity of low intensity. Vigorous physical activity during the week was noted in only 6 seniors. Women who met the recommendations of physical activity achieved significantly better results in test trials, e.g. Chair Stands, Up and Go, Six Minute Step Test.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to physical activity guidelines was associated with better functional fitness of older women. However, less than half of the examined seniors met the Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health.

Association Between Objectively Measured Physical Activity And Musculoskeletal Disorders, And Perceived Work Ability Among Adult, Middle-Aged And Older Women

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between objectively measured physical activity and perceived work ability and musculoskeletal disorders among adult, middle-aged, and older women.

Patients and methods

This study used a cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 348 women divided into 3 age groups: 30–49 years (n=111), 50–65 years (n=120), 66–75 years (n=117). Weekly physical activity was monitored using tri-axial accelerometer ActiGraph Gt3X. Perceived work ability was assessed using the standardized Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaire. Information about the occurrence and intensity of musculoskeletal disorders was collected using standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) expanded by visual analog pain intensity scale (VAS).

Results

Regardless of age, women who met physical activity recommendations achieved higher scores in each part of the WAI, and also in the total WAI scores. However, the most significant differences were found in women aged 50–64 years, and included the following items: subjective work ability, work ability in relation to demands, work impairments, sick leave in the past year. Total WAI scores were also significantly higher in women aged 30–49 and 50–64 years who met PA recommendations in comparison to women who did not meet recommendations. Also, significant relations between the frequency of occurrence of musculoskeletal problems and meeting physical activity recommendations were found in women aged 50–64 years. Those who were more physically active reported less musculoskeletal problems in shoulders (p=0.006) and ankles/feet (p=0.018) regions.

Conclusion

Adherence to Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health disseminated by WHO is related to better-perceived work ability among adult (30–49 years) and middle-aged (50–64 years) women. There is also a relationship between adherence to recommendations of physical activity and frequency and intensity of musculoskeletal pain among middle-aged women.