Showing papers in "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2015"
TL;DR: The synthesized C-dots were characterized by atomic force microscope, transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence spectrophotometer, UV-vis absorption spectra as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and showed various merits including high fluorescent quantum yield, excellent photostability, low toxicity and satisfactory solubility.
Abstract: A simple, economical, and green method for the preparation of water-soluble, high-fluorescent carbon quantum dots (C-dots) has been developed via hydrothermal process using aloe as a carbon source. The synthesized C-dots were characterized by atomic force microscope (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fluorescence spectrophotometer, UV–vis absorption spectra as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results reveal that the as-prepared C-dots were spherical shape with an average diameter of 5 nm and emit bright yellow photoluminescence (PL) with a quantum yield of approximately 10.37%. The surface of the C-dots was rich in hydroxyl groups and presented various merits including high fluorescent quantum yield, excellent photostability, low toxicity and satisfactory solubility. Additionally, we found that one of the widely used synthetic food colorants, tartrazine, could result in a strong fluorescence quenching of the C-dots through a static quenching process. The decrease of ...
334 citations
TL;DR: Layer-by-layer (LbL) interfacial architecture on the oil-water surface of the droplets was observed, which implied a possibility to fabricate hierarchical interface microstructure via modulation of the noncovalent interaction between hydrophobic protein and natural polyphenol.
Abstract: Food-grade colloidal particles and complexes, which are formed via modulation of the noncovalent interactions between macromolecules and natural small molecules, can be developed as novel functional ingredients in a safe and sustainable way. For this study was prepared a novel zein/tannic acid (TA) complex colloidal particle (ZTP) based on the hydrogen-bonding interaction between zein and TA in aqueous ethanol solution by using a simple antisolvent approach. Pickering emulsion gels with high oil volume fraction (φ(oil) > 50%) were successfully fabricated via one-step homogenization. Circular dichroism (CD) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements, which were used to characterize the structure of zein/TA complexes in ethanol solution, clearly showed that TA binding generated a conformational change of zein without altering their supramolecular structure at pH 5.0 and intermediate TA concentrations. Consequently, the resultant ZTP had tuned near neutral wettability (θ(ow) ∼ 86°) and enhanced interfacial reactivity, but without significantly decreased surface charge. These allowed the ZTP to stabilize the oil droplets and further triggered cross-linking to form a continuous network among and around the oil droplets and protein particles, leading to the formation of stable Pickering emulsion gels. Layer-by-layer (LbL) interfacial architecture on the oil-water surface of the droplets was observed, which implied a possibility to fabricate hierarchical interface microstructure via modulation of the noncovalent interaction between hydrophobic protein and natural polyphenol.
294 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that the previously unrecognized diversity of its degradation products could be an important factor in explaining the polypharmacology of curcumin.
Abstract: Curcumin is the main bioactive ingredient in turmeric extract and widely consumed as part of the spice mix curry or as a dietary supplement. Turmeric has a long history of therapeutic application in traditional Asian medicine. Biomedical studies conducted in the past two decades have identified a large number of cellular targets and effects of curcumin. In vitro curcumin rapidly degrades in an autoxidative transformation to diverse chemical species, the formation of which has only recently been appreciated. This paper discusses how the degradation and metabolism of curcumin, through products and their mechanism of formation, provide a basis for the interpretation of preclinical data and clinical studies. It is suggested that the previously unrecognized diversity of its degradation products could be an important factor in explaining the polypharmacology of curcumin.
287 citations
TL;DR: Consumption of probiotics alone or foods supplemented with probiotics may reduce oxidative damage, free radical scavenging rate, and modification in activity of crucial antioxidative enzymes in human cells, in this view.
Abstract: Probiotics are known for their health beneficial effects and are established as dietary adjuncts. Probiotics have been known for many beneficial health effects. In this view, there is interest to find the potential probiotic strains that can exhibit antioxidant properties along with health benefits. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that probiotics exhibit antioxidant potential. In this view, consumption of probiotics alone or foods supplemented with probiotics may reduce oxidative damage, free radical scavenging rate, and modification in activity of crucial antioxidative enzymes in human cells. Incorporation of probiotics in foods can provide a good strategy to supply dietary antioxidants, but more studies are needed to standardize methods and evaluate antioxidant properties of probiotics before they can be recommended for antioxidant potential. In this paper, the literature related to known antioxidant potential of probiotics and proposing future perspectives to conduct such studies has been reviewed.
267 citations
TL;DR: In vitro simulated digestion experiments indicated that the nanocomplexation significantly improved the in vitro protein digestibility of both unheated and heated SPI; the bioaccessibility was greatly impaired by hydrolysis-induced protein aggregation.
Abstract: The complexation of nanoparticles in unheated and heated (at 75–95°) soy protein isolate (SPI) with curcumin and the effects on curcumin stability/bioaccessibility and in vitro protein digestibility were investigated. The nanoparticles did not display noticeable changes in size and morphology upon nanocomplexation with curcumin, except their surface hydrophobicity. The encapsulation efficiency of curcumin progressively decreased with increasing initial curcumin concentration in the dispersion, while the load amount linearly increased. The solubility of curcumin in water was enhanced by the complexation above 98000-fold (vs free curcumin in water). The formation of the nanocomplexes considerably improved the storage stability of curcumin. In vitro simulated digestion experiments indicated that the complexation also improved the bioaccessibility of curcumin; the bioaccessibility was greatly impaired by hydrolysis-induced protein aggregation. Addtionally, the nanocomplexation significantly improved the in vi...
247 citations
TL;DR: This study opens a promising pathway for producing antioxidant emulsions via the combination of Pickering stabilization mechanism and interfacial delivery of antioxidant in dual-function zein/CH complex particles.
Abstract: Lipid peroxidation in oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions leads to rancidity and carcinogen formation. This work attempted to protect lipid droplets of emulsions from peroxidation via manipulation of the emulsions' interface framework using dual-function zein/CH complex particles (ZCPs). ZCP with intermediate wettability was fabricated via a simple antisolvent approach. Pickering emulsions were produced via a simple and inexpensive shear-induced emulsification technique. ZCP was irreversibly anchored at the oil-water interface to form particle-based network architecture therein, producing ultrastable o/w Pickering emulsions (ZCPEs). ZCPE was not labile to lipid oxidation, evidenced by low lipid hydroperoxides and malondialdehyde levels in the emulsions after thermally accelerated storage. The targeted accumulation of curcumin, a model antioxidant, at the interface was achieved using the ZCP as interfacial vehicle, forming antioxidant shells around dispersed droplets. The oxidative stability of ZCPEs was further improved. Interestingly, no detectable hexanal peak appeared in headspace gas chromatography of the Pickering emulsions. The novel interfacial architecture via the combination of steric hindrance from ZCP-based membrane and interfacial cargo of curcumin endowed the emulsions with favorable oxidative stability. This study opens a promising pathway for producing antioxidant emulsions via the combination of Pickering stabilization mechanism and interfacial delivery of antioxidant.
233 citations
TL;DR: Carotenoid, flavonoid, and vitamin C concentrations were determined in fresh orange segments and a puree-like homogenate derived thereof, as well as freshly squeezed, flash-pasteurized, and pasteurized juices.
Abstract: Carotenoid, flavonoid, and vitamin C concentrations were determined in fresh orange segments and a puree-like homogenate derived thereof, as well as freshly squeezed, flash-pasteurized, and pasteurized juices. Lutein and β-cryptoxanthin were slightly degraded during dejuicing, whereas β-carotene levels were retained. Vitamin C levels remained unaffected, whereas flavonoid levels decreased 8-fold upon juice extraction, most likely due to the removal of flavonoid-rich albedo and juice vesicles. Likewise, the presence of such fibrous matrix compounds during in vitro digestion was assumed to significantly lower the total bioaccessibility (BA) of all carotenoids from fresh fruit segments (12%) as compared to juices (29-30%). Mechanical disruption of orange segments prior to digestion did not alter carotenoid BA, whereas pasteurization of the freshly squeezed juice slightly increased BA by 9-11%. In addition to carotenoid BA, the stabilities of hesperidin, narirutin, and vitamin C including dehydroascorbic acid during in vitro digestion were monitored, and applied analytical methods were briefly validated.
221 citations
TL;DR: In this review, the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH(•) radical is evaluated in detail by showing the usefulness of some and the uselessness of others.
Abstract: The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH(•)) radical is approaching 100 years from its discovery in 1922 by Goldschmidt and Renn. This radical is colored and remarkably stable, two properties that have made it one of the most popular radicals in a wide range of studies. First, there is the evaluation of the antioxidant abilities of phenols and other natural compounds (A-H) through a "test" that-at a closer look-is utterly inappropriate. In fact, the test-derived EC50, that is, the concentration of A-H able to scavenge 50% of the initial DPPH(•), is not a kinetic parameter and hence its purported correlation with the antioxidant properties of chemicals is not justified. Kinetic measurements, such as the second-order rate constants for H-atom abstraction from A-H by DPPH(•), in apolar media, are the only useful parameters to predict the antioxidant ability of A-H. Other applications of DPPH(•) include kinetic and mechanistic studies, kinetic solvent effects, EPR spectroscopy, polymer chemistry, and many more. In this review these applications are evaluated in detail by showing the usefulness of some and the uselessness of others. The chemistry of DPPH(•) is also briefly reviewed.
217 citations
TL;DR: Recent findings in the relationship between intestinal microbes and brain function, such as anxiety, depression, stress, autism, learning, and memory are reviewed.
Abstract: There exists a bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. Increasing evidence shows that gut microbiota can play a critical role in this communication; thus, the concept of a gut microbiota and brain axis is emerging. Here, we review recent findings in the relationship between intestinal microbes and brain function, such as anxiety, depression, stress, autism, learning, and memory. We highlight the advances in modulating brain development and behavior by probiotics, prebiotics, and diet through the gut microbiota-brain axis. A variety of mechanisms including immune, neural, and metabolic pathways may be involved in modulation of the gut microbiota-brain axis. We also discuss some future challenges. A deeper understanding of the relationship between the gut bacteria and their hosts is implicated in developing microbial-based therapeutic strategies for brain disorders.
217 citations
TL;DR: Recent research regarding the health benefits of BW is reviewed, in vitro and in vivo, focusing on the specific role of its bioactive compounds and on the mechanisms by which these effects are exerted.
Abstract: Buckwheat (BW) is a gluten-free pseudocereal that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. BW grain is a highly nutritional food component that has been shown to provide a wide range of beneficial effects. Health benefits attributed to BW include plasma cholesterol level reduction, neuroprotection, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic effects, and improvement of hypertension conditions. In addition, BW has been reported to possess prebiotic and antioxidant activities. In vitro and animal studies suggest that BW's bioactive compounds, such as D-chiro-inositol (DCI), BW proteins (BWP), and BW flavonoids (mainly rutin and quercetin) may be partially responsible for the observed effects. The purpose of this paper is to review the recent research regarding the health benefits of BW, in vitro and in vivo, focusing on the specific role of its bioactive compounds and on the mechanisms by which these effects are exerted.
206 citations
TL;DR: The main inhibition mechanism of ka Kempferol on XO activity may be due to the insertion of kaempferol into the active site of XO occupying the catalytic center of the enzyme to avoid the entrance of the substrate and inducing conformational changes ofXO.
Abstract: Xanthine oxidase (XO), a key enzyme in purine catabolism, is widely distributed in human tissues. It can catalyze xanthine to generate uric acid and cause hyperuricemia and gout. Inhibition kinetics assay showed that kaempferol inhibited XO activity reversibly in a competitive manner. Strong fluorescence quenching and conformational changes of XO were found due to the formation of a kaempferol-XO complex, which was driven mainly by hydrophobic forces. The molecular docking further revealed that kaempferol inserted into the hydrophobic cavity of XO to interact with some amino acid residues. The main inhibition mechanism of kaempferol on XO activity may be due to the insertion of kaempferol into the active site of XO occupying the catalytic center of the enzyme to avoid the entrance of the substrate and inducing conformational changes of XO. In addition, luteolin exhibited a stronger synergistic effect with kaempferol than did morin at the lower concentration.
TL;DR: It is shown that imidacloprid can induce oxidative stress and DNA damage in zebrafish and was dose- and time-dependent.
Abstract: Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide that can have negative effects on nontarget animals. The present study was conducted to assess the toxicity of various imidacloprid doses (0.3, 1.25, and 5 mg/mL) on zebrafish sampled after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of exposure. The levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the extent of DNA damage were measured to evaluate the toxicity of imidacloprid on zebrafish. SOD and GST activities were noticeably increased during early exposure but were inhibited toward the end of the exposure period. In addition, the CAT levels decreased to the control level following their elevation during early exposure. High concentrations of imidacloprid (1.25 and 5 mg/L) induced excessive ROS production and markedly increased MDA content on the 21st day of exposure. DNA damage was dose- and time-dependent. In conclusion, the present study showed that imidacloprid can induce oxidative stress and DNA damage in zebrafish.
TL;DR: This overview surveys and consolidates the widely scattered literature on the chemistry (isolation and structural characterization) of polysaccharides and secondary metabolites of Hericium erinaceus and suggests ways to optimize the use of the whole mushrooms and about 70 characterized actual and potential bioactive secondary metabolites to help prevent or treat human chronic, cognitive, and neurological diseases.
Abstract: The culinary and medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus is widely consumed in Asian countries, but apparently not in the United States, for its nutritional and health benefits. To stimulate broader interest in the reported beneficial properties, this overview surveys and consolidates the widely scattered literature on the chemistry (isolation and structural characterization) of polysaccharides and secondary metabolites such as erinacines, hericerins, hericenones, resorcinols, steroids, mono- and diterpenes, and volatile aroma compounds, nutritional composition, food and industrial uses, and exceptional nutritional and health-promoting aspects of H. erinaceus. The reported health-promoting properties of the mushroom fruit bodies, mycelia, and bioactive pure compounds include antibiotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, antifatigue, antihypertensive, antihyperlipodemic, antisenescence, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective properties and improvement of anxiety, cognitive function, and depression. The described anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunostimulating properties in cells, animals, and humans seem to be responsible for the multiple health-promoting properties. A wide range of research advances and techniques are described and evaluated. The collated information and suggestion for further research might facilitate and guide further studies to optimize the use of the whole mushrooms and about 70 characterized actual and potential bioactive secondary metabolites to help prevent or treat human chronic, cognitive, and neurological diseases.
TL;DR: Kafirin nanoparticle-stabilized Pickering emulsions were used to encapsulate curcumin and it was found that KPEs were found to be more stable under acidic than basic environment, and elevated temperature induced their structural instability.
Abstract: Kafirin nanoparticle-stabilized Pickering emulsions (KPEs) were used to encapsulate curcumin. The stability of KPEs under processing conditions and their protective effects against photo-oxidation of curcumin and lipid oxidation of oil in emulsions, as well as the digestion profiles in gastrointestinal tract, were investigated. KPEs were found to be more stable under acidic than basic environment, and elevated temperature induced their structural instability. The protective effect of KPEs on the chemical stability of curcumin was manifested when subjected to UV radiation as compared to other comparable formulations, such as bulk oil or Tween 80 stabilized emulsions (TEs). Meanwhile, the lipid oxidation rate was retarded in KPEs as compared to those of TEs. Due to hydrolysis of pepsin, KPEs could not survive through the gastric digestion process. After the intestinal digestion process, the extent of lipolysis of KPEs and the curcumin bioaccessibility fell between those of TEs and bulk oil. These results will fill the gap between the physicochemical properties of protein particle-based Pickering emulsions and their realistic applications in the oral delivery of functional food ingredients.
TL;DR: Comparing the metabolite profiles of green teas of nine varieties that were plucked in spring, summer, and autumn by using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry on a reversed phase column suggested that several flavonoids and amino acids are mainly responsible for the seasonal variations in taste quality.
Abstract: The chemical composition and taste quality of tea fluctuate seasonally. However, the compounds responsible for the seasonal variation of metabolic pattern and taste quality are far from clear. This study compared the metabolite profiles of green teas of nine varieties that were plucked in spring, summer, and autumn by using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) on a reversed phase column. A multivariate analysis indicated distinct differences among the metabolite phenotypes of teas harvested in different seasons. Heat-map analysis and metabolic pathway analysis demonstrated that flavan-3-ols, theasinensins, procyanidins, quercetin-O-glycosides, apigenin-C-glycosides, and amino acids exhibited sharp seasonal fluctuations. An equivalent quantification of tea tastes showed that in summer and autumn teas, the bitterness and astringency were significantly elevated, whereas umami declined. Metabolite content comparisons and partial least-squares analysis suggested that several flavonoids and amino acids are mainly responsible for the seasonal variations in taste quality.
TL;DR: The immunostimulating assay indicated that DP1 could significantly promote macrophage NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 secretion in murine RAW 264.7 cells involving complement receptor 3 (CR3).
Abstract: A novel polysaccharide, here named DP1, was isolated from the fruiting body of Dictyophora indusiata using a water extraction method. Structure characterization revealed that DP1 had an average molecular weight of 1132 kDa and consisted of glucose (56.2%), galactose (14.1%), and mannose (29.7%). The main linkage type of DP1 were proven to be (1 → 3)-linked α-l-Man, (1 → 2,6)-linked α-d-Glc, (1 → 6)-linked β-d-Glc, (1 → 6)-linked β-d-Gal, and (1 → 6)-linked β-d-Man by periodate oxidation–Smith degradation and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. The immunostimulating assay indicated that DP1 could significantly promote macrophage NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 secretion in murine RAW 264.7 cells involving complement receptor 3 (CR3). The immune activities of DP1 were quite stable under thermal processing (100, 121, and 145 °C). Besides, DP1 retained stability after acidic/alkline treatment (pH 4.0–10.0), which enabled it to be an ideal complementary medicine or functional food for therapeutics of hypoimmunity and imm...
TL;DR: The electrospray technique compared to conventional techniques such as nanoprecipitation, emulsion-diffusion, double-emulsification, and layer by layer provides greater advantages to develop micro- and nanoparticles because it is simple, low cost, uses a low amount of solvents, and products are obtained in one step.
Abstract: Micro- and nanotechnology are tools being used strongly in the area of food technology. The electrospray technique is booming because of its importance in developing micro- and nanoparticles containing an active ingredient as bioactive compounds, enhancing molecules of flavors, odors, and packaging coatings, and developing polymers that are obtained from food (proteins, carbohydrates), as chitosan, alginate, gelatin, agar, starch, or gluten. The electrospray technique compared to conventional techniques such as nanoprecipitation, emulsion–diffusion, double-emulsification, and layer by layer provides greater advantages to develop micro- and nanoparticles because it is simple, low cost, uses a low amount of solvents, and products are obtained in one step. This technique could also be applied in the agrifood sector for the preparation of controlled and/or prolonged release systems of fertilizer or agrochemicals, for which more research must be conducted.
TL;DR: Inorganic salt pretreatment represents a more novel method and offers comparable sugar recovery with the potential for reducing costs and the use of inorganic salt also shows improved performance when it is integrated with other pretreatment technologies.
Abstract: Currently, the transformation of lignocellulosic biomass into value-added products such as reducing sugars is garnering attention worldwide. However, efficient hydrolysis is usually hindered by the recalcitrant structure of the biomass. Many pretreatment technologies have been developed to overcome the recalcitrance of lignocellulose such that the components can be reutilized more effectively to enhance sugar recovery. Among all of the utilized pretreatment methods, inorganic salt pretreatment represents a more novel method and offers comparable sugar recovery with the potential for reducing costs. The use of inorganic salt also shows improved performance when it is integrated with other pretreatment technologies. Hence, this paper is aimed to provide a detailed overview of the current situation for lignocellulosic biomass and its physicochemical characteristics. Furthermore, this review discusses some recent studies using inorganic salt for pretreating biomass and the mechanisms involved during the proce...
TL;DR: The bioaccessibility of resveratrol was enhanced when it was encapsulated in both biopolymer nanoparticles andBiopolymer complexes, and these results have important implications for the development of effective delivery systems for incorporating lipophilic nutraceuticals into functional foods and beverages.
Abstract: The impact of encapsulating resveratrol in biopolymer nanoparticles or biopolymer complexes on its physicochemical stability and bioaccessibility was determined. The biopolymer nanoparticles consisted of a zein core surrounded by a caseinate or caseinate-dextran shell. The biopolymer complexes consisted of resveratrol bound to caseinate or caseinate-dextran. The caseinate-dextran conjugates were formed using the Maillard reaction. Both the biopolymer nanoparticles and complexes protected trans-resveratrol from isomerization when exposed to UV light, with the nanoparticles being more effective. Nanoparticles coated by caseinate-dextran were more stable to aggregation under simulated gastrointestinal conditions than those coated by caseinate, presumably due to greater steric repulsion. The bioaccessibility of resveratrol was enhanced when it was encapsulated in both biopolymer nanoparticles and biopolymer complexes. These results have important implications for the development of effective delivery systems for incorporating lipophilic nutraceuticals into functional foods and beverages.
TL;DR: The present work demonstrated methodology and provided data on fatty acid composition, lipid class content and composition, characteristics of the unsaponifiables, and type of chlorophylls of five microalgae, valuable for strain selection, downstream biomass fractionation, and utilization.
Abstract: To meet the growing interest of utilizing microalgae biomass in the production of biofuels and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical lipids, we need suitable analytical methods and a comprehensive database for their lipid components. The objective of the present work was to demonstrate methodology and provide data on fatty acid composition, lipid class content and composition, characteristics of the unsaponifiables, and type of chlorophylls of five microalgae. Microalgae lipids were fractionated into TAG, FFA, and polar lipids using TLC, and the composition of fatty acids in total lipids and in each lipid class, hydrocarbons, and sterols were determined by GC-MS. Glyco- and phospholipids were profiled by LC/ESI-MS. Chlorophylls and their related metabolites were qualified by LC/APCI-MS. The melting and crystallization profiles of microalgae total lipids and their esters were analyzed by DSC to evaluate their potential biofuel applications. Significant differences and complexities of lipid composition among the algae tested were observed. The compositional information is valuable for strain selection, downstream biomass fractionation, and utilization.
TL;DR: This fluorescence sensor based on the g-CNQDs-Hg(2+) system was successfully employed for the determination of GSH in various kinds of food samples with excellent recoveries and may pave a new way for fluorescence sensing of other substances in food samples.
Abstract: Fluorescence sensing of specific biological molecules by artificial chemosensors is a versatile technique. In the present work, a switch-on fluorescence sensor for rapid, sensitive, and selective sensing of glutathione (GSH) in food samples was developed. This method was based on the g-CNQDs–Hg2+ system, in which the initial fluorescence from g-CNQDs was quenched by Hg2+ with an electron transfer process. In the presence of GSH, the fluorescence sensor was switched to the “on” state, which was attributed to a competitive affinity of Hg2+ to GSH and the functional groups on the surface of g-CNQDs. Under the optimal conditions, the limit of detection (LOD) of 37 nM for GSH was achieved with a wide range of 0.16–16 μM. The repeatability was better than 5.3% for GSH in both standard and food samples (n = 3). Finally, this fluorescence sensor was successfully employed for the determination of GSH in various kinds of food samples with excellent recoveries. Furthermore, this application may pave a new way for fl...
TL;DR: Luteolin-7-O-glucoside is primarily hydrolyzed to luteolin in the gastrointestinal tract and then absorbed into the systemic circulation and the pharmacokinetic data demonstrate that the areas under the concentration curves (AUCs) of lutenolin were 261 ± 33 and 611 ± 89 after luteol administration.
Abstract: Luteolin and luteolin-7-O-glucoside were isolated from the ethanolic extract of Dendranthema morifolium Ramat Tzvel. The structures of these analytes were identified by nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H and (13)C NMR) and mass spectrometry. Ethanolic and water extracts contained luteolin-7-O-glucoside at 4.19 and 6.56%, respectively. However, the level of luteolin was only 0.19% in the ethanolic extract, and luteolin was not detected in the water extract. To examine the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of luteolin and luteolin-7-O-glucoside in rats, parallel studies of luteolin (10 mg/kg, iv; and 100 mg/kg, po) and luteolin-7-O-glucoside (10 mg/kg, iv; and 1 g/kg, po) were conducted. The analytes were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector. A phenyl-hexyl (150 × 4.6 mm iv; 5.0 μm) column was used to separate the analytes from the biological samples. The pharmacokinetic data demonstrate that the areas under the concentration curves (AUCs) of luteolin were 261 ± 33 and 611 ± 89 (min μg/mL) after luteolin administration (10 mg/kg, iv; and 100 mg/kg, po, respectively). The oral bioavailability of luteolin was 26 ± 6%. The AUCs of luteolin-7-O-glucoside were 229 ± 15 and 2109 ± 350 (min μg/mL) after administration of luteolin-7-O-glucoside (10 mg/kg, iv; and 1 g/kg, po, respectively). The oral bioavailability of luteolin-7-O-glucoside was approximately 10 ± 2%. In the group that received luteolin-7-O-glucoside orally, a biotransformed luteolin product was detected, but this product was not detected in the group that received luteolin-7-O-glucoside intravenously. The biotransformation ratio of luteolin to luteolin-7-O-glucoside (the AUC ratio of metabolite/parent compound) was approximately 48.78 ± 0.12%. These results demonstrate that luteolin-7-O-glucoside is primarily hydrolyzed to luteolin in the gastrointestinal tract and then absorbed into the systemic circulation.
TL;DR: Saponins caused dose-dependent increases in the severity of inflammation independent of the basal diet, with concomitant alterations in digestive functions and immunological marker expression, suggesting potentiation by other legume component(s).
Abstract: Soybean meal-induced enteritis (SBMIE) is a well-described condition in the distal intestine of salmonids, and saponins have been implicated as the causal agent. However, the question remains whether saponins alone cause SBMIE. Moreover, the dose-response relationship has not been described. In a 10 week feeding trial with Atlantic salmon, a highly purified (95%) soya saponin preparation was supplemented (0, 2, 4, 6, or 10 g/kg) to two basal diets, one containing fishmeal as the major protein source (FM) and the other 25% lupin meal (LP). Saponins caused dose-dependent increases in the severity of inflammation independent of the basal diet, with concomitant alterations in digestive functions and immunological marker expression. Thus, saponins induced inflammation whether the diet contained other legume components or not. However, responses were often the same or stronger in fish fed the corresponding saponin-supplemented LP diets despite lower saponin exposure, suggesting potentiation by other legume component(s).
TL;DR: In vitro, the release of resveratrol from the nanoparticles was found to be pH independent and adjusted well to the Peppas-Sahlin kinetic model, suggesting a mechanism based on the combination of diffusion and erosion of the nanoparticle matrix.
Abstract: Resveratrol offers pleiotropic health benefits including a reported ability to inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine production. The aim of this work was to prepare, characterize, and evaluate a resveratrol nanoparticulate formulation based on zein. For this purpose, the oral bioavailability of the encapsulated polyphenol as well as its anti-inflammatory effects in a mouse model of endotoxic shock was studied. The resveratrol-loaded nanoparticles displayed a mean size of 307 ± 3 nm, with a negative zeta potential (−51.1 ± 1.55 mV), and a polyphenol loading of 80.2 ± 3.26 μg/mg. In vitro, the release of resveratrol from the nanoparticles was found to be pH independent and adjusted well to the Peppas–Sahlin kinetic model, suggesting a mechanism based on the combination of diffusion and erosion of the nanoparticle matrix. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that zein-based nanoparticles provided high and prolonged plasma levels of the polyphenol for at least 48 h. The oral bioavailability of res...
TL;DR: The aroma profile of oolong tea infusions (Dongdingwulong, DDWL; Tieguanyin, TGY; Dahongpao, DHP) was investigated in this study, and forty-seven aroma compounds were at concentrations higher than their corresponding odor thresholds.
Abstract: The aroma profile of oolong tea infusions (Dongdingwulong, DDWL; Tieguanyin, TGY; Dahongpao, DHP) were investigated in this study. Gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O) with the method of aroma intensity (AI) was employed to investigate the aroma-active compounds in tea infusions. The results presented forty-three, forty-five, and forty-eight aroma-active compounds in the TGY, DHP, and DDWL infusions, including six, seven, and five sulfur compounds, respectively. In addition, the concentration of volatile compounds in the tea infusions was further quantitated by solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography (SPME)-GC-MS and SPME-GC-flame photometric detection (FPD). Totally, seventy-six and thirteen volatile and sulfur compounds were detected in three types of tea infusions, respectively. Quantitative results showed that forty-seven aroma compounds were at concentrations higher than their corresponding odor thresholds. On the basis of the odor activity values (OAVs), 2-methylpropanal (OAV: 230-455), 3-methylbutanal (1-353), 2-methylbutanal (34-68), nerolidol (108-184), (E)-2-heptenal (148-294), hexanal (134-230), octanal (28-131), β-damascenone (29-59), indole (96-138), 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one (34-67), (R)-(-)-linalool (63-87), and dimethyl sulfide (7-1320) presented relatively higher OAVs than those of other compounds, indicating the importance of these compounds in the overall aroma of tea infusions.
TL;DR: Relatively high levels of tetracyclines and sulfonamides were detected in the nonedible parts, roots, and leaves of cucumber and tomato, but fruit parts accumulated them lower than acceptable daily intake.
Abstract: Veterinary antibiotics can be released to environment by the animals' excretions, which thereby poses human health and ecological risks. Six antibiotics (tetracycline, oxytetracycline, chlortetracycline, sulfamethazine, sulfamethoxazole, and sulfadimethoxine) at three concentrations (5, 10, and 20 mg kg(-1) soil) were employed in pots filled with a loamy sand upland soil. Three types of vegetable seedlings, including cucumber (Cucumis sativus), cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and lettuce (Lactuca sativa), were also cultivated during 45 d in the greenhouse. All antibiotics taken up by tested plants showed negative effects on growth. Relatively high levels of tetracyclines and sulfonamides (SAs) were detected in the nonedible parts, roots, and leaves of cucumber and tomato, but fruit parts accumulated them lower than acceptable daily intake. Indeed, cucumber roots accumulated SAs by up to 94.6% of total addition (at 5 mg kg(-1) soil).
TL;DR: The aim of this study was to use a detailed rheological characterization to gain new insights into the gelation behavior of natural waxes, with most gels showing strong shear sensitivity and a weak thixotropic recovery.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to use a detailed rheological characterization to gain new insights into the gelation behavior of natural waxes. To make a comprehensive case, six natural waxes (differing in the relative proportion of chemical components: hydrocarbons, fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and wax esters) were selected as organogelators to gel high-oleic sunflower oil. Flow and dynamic rheological properties of organogels prepared at critical gelling concentrations (Cg) of waxes were studied and compared using drag (stress ramp and steady flow) and oscillatory shear (stress and frequency sweeps) tests. Although, none of the organogels satisfied the rheological definition of a “strong gel” (G″/G′ (ω) ≤ 0.1), on comparing the samples, the strongest gel (highest critical stress and dynamic, apparent, and static yield stresses) was obtained not with wax containing the highest proportion of wax esters alone (sunflower wax, SFW) but with wax containing wax esters along with a higher proportion of fatty alcohol...
TL;DR: The present study identified eight key enzymes by mass spectrometry and partially by activity staining on native polyacrylamide gels or gel zymography and purified Flavourzyme enzymes were biochemically characterized with regard to pH and temperature profiles and molecular sizes.
Abstract: Flavourzyme is sold as a peptidase preparation from Aspergillus oryzae. The enzyme preparation is widely and diversely used for protein hydrolysis in industrial and research applications. However, detailed information about the composition of this mixture is still missing due to the complexity. The present study identified eight key enzymes by mass spectrometry and partially by activity staining on native polyacrylamide gels or gel zymography. The eight enzymes identified were two aminopeptidases, two dipeptidyl peptidases, three endopeptidases, and one α-amylase from the A. oryzae strain ATCC 42149/RIB 40 (yellow koji mold). Various specific marker substrates for these Flavourzyme enzymes were ascertained. An automated, time-saving nine-step protocol for the purification of all eight enzymes within 7 h was designed. Finally, the purified Flavourzyme enzymes were biochemically characterized with regard to pH and temperature profiles and molecular sizes.
TL;DR: Novel strategies that can be applied to enhance the sensitivity of lateral flow immunoassay to detect foodborne pathogens are presented; these strategies include innovating new label application, designing new formats, combining with other methods, and developing signal amplification systems.
Abstract: Food contaminated by foodborne pathogens causes diseases, affects individuals, and even kills those affected individuals. As such, rapid and sensitive detection methods should be developed to screen pathogens in food. One current detection method is lateral flow immunoassay, an efficient technique because of several advantages, including rapidity, simplicity, stability, portability, and sensitivity. This review presents the format and principle of lateral flow immunoassay strip and the development of conventional lateral flow immunoassay for detecting foodborne pathogens. Furthermore, novel strategies that can be applied to enhance the sensitivity of lateral flow immunoassay to detect foodborne pathogens are presented; these strategies include innovating new label application, designing new formats of lateral flow immunoassay, combining with other methods, and developing signal amplification systems. With these advancements, detection sensitivity and detection time can be greatly improved.
TL;DR: This review focuses on some of the most promising nonconventional and emerging technologies, which may constitute a potential alternative to conventional methods or even could be combined to obtain a synergistic effect, thus reducing extraction time as well as solvent consumption and avoiding the use of toxic solvents.
Abstract: The South American plant Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a great source of noncaloric sweeteners (steviol glycosides), mainly concentrated in its leaves, but also has important antioxidant compounds (vitamin C, polyphenols, chlorophylls, and carotenoids) and other important macro- and micronutrients such as folic acid and all of the essential amino acids except tryptophan. Traditionally, conventional methods have been used to recover nutritionally valuable compounds from plant food matrices. However, nowadays, the need for obtaining greener, sustainable, and viable processes has led both food industries and food scientists to develop new processes in full correspondence with the green extraction concept. This review focuses on some of the most promising nonconventional and emerging technologies, which may constitute a potential alternative to conventional methods or even could be combined to obtain a synergistic effect, thus reducing extraction time as well as solvent consumption and avoiding the use of toxi...