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Natural products have attracted great interest in the development of tissue engineering. Recent studies have demonstrated that unsaturated fatty acids found in natural plant seed oil may exhibit positive osteogenic effects; however, few in vivo studies have focused on the use of plant seed oil for bone regeneration. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of seed oil found in Sapindus mukorossi (S. mukorossi) on the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and bone growth in artificial bone defects in vivo. In this study, Wharton-jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) were co-cultured with S. mukorossi seed oil. Cellular osteogenic capacity was assessed using Alizarin Red S staining. Real-time PCR was carried out to evaluate ALP and OCN gene expression. The potential of S. mukorossi seed oil to enhance bone growth was assessed using an animal model. Four 6 mm circular defects were prepared at the parietal bone of New Zealand white rabbits. The defects were filled with hydrogel and hydrogel-S. mukorossi seed oil, respectively. Quantitative analysis of micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) and histological images was conducted to compare differences in osteogenesis between oil-treated and untreated samples. Although our results showed no significant differences in viability between WJMSCs treated with and without S. mukorossi seed oil, under osteogenic conditions, S. mukorossi seed oil facilitated an increase in mineralized nodule secretion and upregulated the expression of ALP and OCN genes in the cells (p < 0.05). In the animal study, both micro-CT and histological evaluations revealed that new bone formation in artificial bone defects treated with S. mukorossi seed oil were nearly doubled compared to control defects (p < 0.05) after 4 weeks of healing. Based on these findings, it is reasonable to suggest that S. mukorossi seed oil holds promise as a potential candidate for enhancing bone healing efficiency in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated breed and gender variations in the compositions of long-chain (≥ C20) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC omega-3 PUFA), fat melting point (FMP) and intramuscular fat (IMF) contents in biopsy samples of the M. longissimus dorsi muscle of grazing beef cattle. The hypothesis that biopsy compositions of health-beneficial LC omega-3 PUFA, FMP and IMF in a pasture-based production system will vary with breed, was tested. Muscle biopsies were taken from 127 yearling pasture-based Angus, Hereford, and Wagyu heifers and young bulls exclusive to the Australian Bowen Genetics Forest Pastoral breeding stud averaging 12 ± 2.43 months of age and under the same management routine. Results: Breed had a significant influence on IMF, FMP, and the compositions of oleic acid, α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), docosahexaenoic (DHA), docosapentaenoic (DPA), and total EPA + DHA + DPA in the M. longissimus dorsi muscle biopsies (P ≤ 0.03). The Wagyu breed had the highest (11.1%) and Hereford the lowest (5.9%) IMF (P = 0.03). The reverse trend was observed in FMP values where the Hereford breed had the highest (55 °C), Angus intermediate (46.5 °C), and Wagyu the lowest (33 °C) FMP. The Wagyu and Angus breeds had similar oleic fatty acid (18:1n-9) content, while the Hereford breed had the lowest (P < 0.01). The highest ALA, DPA, total EPA + DHA, total EPA + DHA + DPA and total ALA + EPA + DHA + DPA contents were detected in the Wagyu breed (P ≤ 0.03). The Hereford had similar EPA and DPA contents to the Angus (P ≥ 0.46). Total EPA + DHA + DPA contents in Wagyu, Angus, and Hereford were 28.8, 21.5, and 22.1 mg/100g tissue (P = 0.01), respectively. Sex was an important source of variation that influenced LC omega-3 PUFA composition, FMP and IMF, where yearling heifers had higher IMF (11.9% vs 5.3%), lower FMP (33°C vs 37°C), and higher LC omega-3 PUFA than bulls. Conclusion: All the results taken together indicate that the Wagyu breed at 28.8 mg/100g tissue, was the closest to meeting the Australia and New Zealand recommended source level threshold of 30 mg/100g tissue of health-beneficial ≥ C20 omega-3 FA content. Since gender was a significant determinant of LC omega-3 PUFA composition, IMF content and FMP, it should be factored into enhancement strategies of healthy meat eating quality traits in grazing cattle. These findings also suggest that the Bowen Genetics Forest Pastoral beef cattle studs are important sources of LC omega-3 PUFA that can be used to cover the deficit in these health claimable fatty acids in Western diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Marine‐derived omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are used globally as food supplements for their anti‐inflammatory properties and to reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. New Zealand green‐lipped mussels (Perna canaliculus) contain diverse valuable compounds, including omega‐3 PUFA. The most abundant omega‐3 PUFA in Perna canaliculus are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which account for many of the health benefits accredited to these mussels. This research investigates the feasibility of using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) to isolate EPA and DHA from Perna canaliculus. RESULTS: Twenty‐two hydrophobic DESs were screened using COSMO‐RS software to predict their affinity for EPA and DHA. Nine top‐ranked DESs were used for experimental extraction validation. The results exposed that the extraction capacity of the menthol: lidocaine DES (1:1 M ratio) for EPA and DHA was superior (172.04 μg EPA g−1 dry weight (DW) of biomass and 602.79 μg DHA g−1 DW) amongst other DESs. This was a considerably higher extraction yield than that observed using ethanol (95.65 μg EPA g−1 DW and 311.49 μg DHA g−1 DW). The optimisation of the menthol: lidocaine ratio identified a 1:2 M ratio as the optimal composition for this DES. The highest yields of EPA (267.59 μg g−1 DW) and DHA (1014.84 μg g−1 DW) were obtained by this optimised DES ratio at optimum extraction conditions (extraction temperature 65 °C, extraction time 2.12 h, and biomass loading 5 w/v%). The EPA and DHA showed good stability in the menthol: lidocaine DES over 7 days. This DES also showed good reusability, with a comparable extraction efficiency being observed after five extraction cycles. CONCLUSION: This research revealed that menthol‐based DES can be a potential green solvent for the extraction of EPA and DHA from New Zealand green‐lipped mussels and it may be applicable for extracting other bioactive compounds with similar characteristics. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aside from their bioremediation roles, little is known about the food and feed value of earthworms. In this study, a comprehensive evaluation of the nutritional composition (proximate analysis and profiles of fatty acids and minerals) and techno-functional properties (foaming and emulsion stability and capacity) of earthworm (Eisenia andrei, sourced in New Zealand) powder (EAP) were investigated. Lipid nutritional indices, ω6/ω3, atherogenicity index, thrombogenicity index, hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic acid ratio, and health-promoting index of EAP lipids are also reported. The protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents of EAP were found to be 53.75%, 19.30%, and 23.26% DW, respectively. The mineral profile obtained for the EAP consisted of 11 essential minerals, 23 non-essential minerals, and 4 heavy metals. The most abundant essential minerals were potassium (8220 mg·kg−1 DW), phosphorus (8220 mg·kg−1 DW), magnesium (744.7 mg·kg−1 DW), calcium (2396.7 mg·kg−1 DW), iron (244.7 mg·kg−1 DW), and manganese (25.6 mg·kg−1 DW). Toxic metals such as vanadium (0.2 mg·kg−1 DW), lead (0.2 mg·kg−1 DW), cadmium (2.2 mg·kg−1 DW), and arsenic (2.3 mg·kg−1 DW) were found in EAP, which pose safety considerations. Lauric acid (20.3% FA), myristoleic acid (11.20% FA), and linoleic acid (7.96% FA) were the most abundant saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, respectively. The lipid nutritional indices, such as IT and ω-6/ω-3, of E. andrei were within limits considered to enhance human health. A protein extract derived from EAP (EAPPE), obtained by alkaline solubilisation and pH precipitation, exhibited an isoelectric pH of ~5. The total essential amino acid content and essential amino acid index of EAPPE were 373.3 mg·g−1 and 1.36 mg·g−1 protein, respectively. Techno-functional analysis of EAPPE indicated a high foaming capacity (83.3%) and emulsion stability (88.8% after 60 min). Heat coagulation of EAPPE was greater at pH 7.0 (12.6%) compared with pH 5.0 (4.83%), corroborating the pH-solubility profile and relatively high surface hydrophobicity (1061.0). These findings demonstrate the potential of EAP and EAPPE as nutrient-rich and functional ingredients suitable as alternative food and feed material. The presence of heavy metals, however, should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the initial live feed is critical to success in fish larviculture in terms of both larval health and productivity. It is also vitally important due to the significant cost of provisioning live feeds. Glaxiids are high-value diadromous fish species found in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, which are wild-harvested and sold for human consumption in their larval form. In the emerging aquaculture of galaxiids, the live feed makes up a great proportion of the production cycle and is therefore a significant factor in achieving the economic viability of their production. In New Zealand, the endemic galaxiid species giant kōkopu (Galaxias argenteus) is considered suitable for aquaculture; however, little is known of their larval-feeding requirements. This study compares the growth performance and survival of giant kōkopu larvae over a four-week period when fed different proportions of first-molt Artemia nauplii (instar-I) and enriched, second-molt-onward Artemia (instar-II+) for different durations. The larvae in the treatment group which received the greatest proportion of Instar-I Artemia for the longest duration had the lowest mean wet weight and survival, leading to the production of the lowest total biomass of fish larvae when compared to the other feed treatments. The feed treatment that received only instar-II+ Artemia achieved an equally best total productivity. While the treatment fed a partial initial duration of mixed instar-I and instar-II+ Artemia achieved the same total productivity, the individual larvae were heavier and their body length was longer. The latter feed treatment appears to offer the best balance between the availability of feed particles in the optimum size range and a higher level of digestibility given that instar-I Artemia had higher levels of highly unsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the important roles of lipids in winemaking, changes in lipids during grape ripening are largely unknown for New Zealand (NZ) varieties. Therefore, we aimed to determine the fatty acid profiles and total lipid content in two of NZ's major grape varieties. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, absolute quantification of 45 fatty acids was determined in Sauvignon blanc (SB) and Pinot noir (PN) grapes harvested at two different stages of ripeness. Lipid concentrations were as high as 0.4 g/g in seeds of both varieties, while pulp contained the least amount. Many unsaturated fatty acids were present, particularly in grape seeds, while skin contained relatively higher amounts of saturated fatty acids that increased throughout ripening. For both varieties, a significant increase in lipid concentration was observed in grapes harvested at the later stage of ripeness, indicating an association between lipids and grape maturity, and providing a novel insight about the use of total lipids as another parameter of grape ripeness. A variety-specific trend in the development and extraction of grape lipids was found from the analysis of the must and ethanolic extracts. Lipid extraction increased linearly with the ethanol concentration and with the extended pomace contact time. More lipids were extracted from the SB pomace to the must than PN within 144 h, suggesting a must matrix effect on lipid extraction. The knowledge generated here is relevant to both industry and academia and can be used to develop lipid diversification strategies to produce different wine styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the effect of four levels (0%, 4.32%, 8.39% or 12.25%) of avocado waste (AW) included in the diets on productive performance, carcass characteristics and meat nutritional quality of fattening rabbits. For that, one hundred and twenty male rabbits (New Zealand × California; 945 ± 47 g initial body weight) were fed over 28 days, randomly distributed to one of the four treatments (T) (T1 = 0, T2 = 4.32, T3 = 8.39 and T4 = 12.25% AW as fed). The chemical and fatty acids profiles were evaluated in the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle. The rabbits fed with 8.39% of AW reported the best productive parameters (p < 0.05), the greater (p < 0.05) dissectible adipose tissue and higher polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) n-3 content (p < 0.05) than control meat. It is concluded that the inclusion of AW in the growing–finishing rabbit's diet can modify the nutritional quality of the meat, reducing the n-6/n-3 ratio and the thrombogenic index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The high polyunsaturated fatty acids content of rabbit meat predisposes it to oxidative deterioration, which often results in reduced product quality and shelf life. This fact highlights the need to improve the antioxidant status of rabbit meat. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of Allium cepa skin (ACS) on growth, carcass, intramuscular fat, muscle fatty acids, cholesterol content, meat quality, antioxidant status, and sensory attributes of hind leg muscle of rabbits. Sixty‐three, 28‐day‐old, male New Zealand rabbits (654 ± 25 g) were randomly allocated into 21 pens of three rabbits. The pens were randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments – ACS‐0: basal diet (BD) only; ACS‐25: BD + 25 g kg−1 ACS; and ACS‐50: BD + 50 g kg−1 ACS – for 56 days and then euthanized. RESULTS: Dietary ACS did not affect growth performance and retail cuts of rabbits. Muscle cholesterol was lower (P < 0.05) in ACS‐supplemented rabbits than in controls. Dietary ACS lowered (P < 0.05) dissectible fat, intramuscular fat content, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:2n−6, and C20:4n−6 levels and enhanced (P < 0.05) C18:3n−3, C20:5n−3, C22:6n−3, and C22:5n−3 concentration. Dietary ACS increased muscle catalase activity in rabbits. Sensory qualities, malondialdehyde and carbonyl contents, and physicochemical attributes of hind leg muscle of rabbits after chill storage were not influenced by dietary ACS supplementation. CONCLUSION: Supplementation with 50 g kg−1 ACS reduced intramuscular fat and cholesterol content and improved muscle n−3 fatty acids without impairing the physicochemical and sensory properties of rabbit meat. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interventions to better manage aggressive behaviour and reduce recidivism are a primary concern for corrective services. Nutritional interventions to correct prisoner behaviour have been largely overlooked in the literature. Emerging evidence suggests that dietary intake influences aggressive behaviours and that nutritional supplementation with omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) could attenuate both the severity and frequency of aggressive behaviour.Methods: Adult male prisoners who have a history of aggressive behaviour (n = 600) will be recruited from at least 6 Correctional Centres and randomised to receive either n-3 LCPUFA or placebo supplementation for a 16-week duration. Treatment will be with either 1 g/day of n-3 LCPUFA (694 mg DHA and 397 mg EPA) or placebo capsules, which are a corn/soy oil blend and are identical in size and colour. The primary outcome measure is the Inmate Behavioural Observation Scale (IBOS): an objective measure of aggressive behaviour. Secondary outcome measures include questionnaires (including aggression, attention deficit disorder, impulsivity, depression/anxiety/stress scales), engagement in programmes, recidivism and quality of life. Baseline and post-intervention assessments include the IBOS, questionnaires and blood to measure the levels of n-3 LCPUFA.Discussion: To conclusively test the potential that increasing n-3 LCPUFA intakes can improve rates of prisoner aggression and associated mental health and violence-related social system management costs, we propose an adequately powered multi-centre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial, examining the effects of n-3 LCPUFA supplementation on aggressive behaviour in adult male prisoners. If successful, this study will inform prisoner policy with respect to nutrition and by inference contribute to a broader community approach to preventative mental health practices.Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12618001665224 . Registered on 10 October 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An amino acid substitution (K232A) in the enzyme diacylglycerol acyl-CoA acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) has been reported to explain variation in milk traits and milk fatty acid (FA) profile. In this study, associations between K232A, and milk traits including milk FA composition, were studied in wholly pasture-fed New Zealand Holstein-Friesian × Jersey cross-bred (KiwicrossTM) dairy cows. With a high frequency of K variant (61.9%), the KK cows produced more milk fat on average (5.41 ± 0.04%), than the AA cows (4.43 ± 0.06%). The milk volume, fat concentration and protein concentration for the AK cows were between the values for the genotypes AA and KK. More C16 : 0 (saturated fatty acid), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (C18:3 cis-9, 12, 15) were found in the milk of the KiwicrossTM cows, and the influence of DGAT1 K232A on these FAs during the mid- and late- stage of lactation were significant. The AA cows produced more (P < 0.001) CLA (1.137 ± 0.047 g/100 g) and C18:3 cis-9, 12, 15 (0.855 ± 0.015 g/100 g), but less C16:0 (35.170 ± 0.355 g/100 g) than the KK cows (0.934 ± 0.025 g/100 g, 0.778 ± 0.009 g/100 g and 38.010 ± 0.250 g/100 g respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Saúde e Produção Animal (RBSPA) is the property of Revista Brasileira de Saude e Producao Animal (RBSPA) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nuts are included as one of the important elements of healthy dietary guidelines in some countries including New Zealand because they are considered a good dietary source of nutrients including unsaturated fatty acids. Walnut (Juglans regia Linn) is one of the most popular nuts worldwide. It has been widely applied in traditional medicine including treatment of asthma, skin disorders, diabetes and thyroid dysfunction. Walnut is regarded as a crop of high economic interest because of its edible fruit parts. There has been a renewed interest in the phytochemicals and medicinal properties of walnut. Therefore, the aim of this review was to comprehensively cover bioactivities and medicinal properties of walnut. The components of walnut include fat (58.3-65.2 %), protein (15.1-17.4 %), carbohydrate (13.9-19.4 %), triterpenic & alphatic alcohols, bioactive compounds, phenolic compounds, sterols and minerals. Future research should investigate the inclusion of walnut or its by-products in the formulation of food products as a method to incorporate specific biologically active components in food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferns are known to contain long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids which may provide health benefits. The objective of this study was to investigate ferns of Pacific temperate regions (Far East of Russia and New Zealand) as sources of valuable fatty acids: arachidonic (20:4n-6) and eicosapentaenoic (20:5n-3). Fatty acids were analyzed in fronds of 23 fern species from 12 families. Major fatty acids include: 18:3n-3 (6–68% of total fatty acids), 16:0 (6–33%), 18:2n-6 (5–46%), 18:1n-9 (1–60%), 20:4n-6 (1–16%). Polyunsaturated fatty acids of fern fronds belong to the omega-6 (16:2n-6, 18:2n-6, 18:3n-6, 20:2n-6, 20:3n-6, 20:4n-6) and omega-3 (16:3n-3, 18:3n-3, 18:4n-3, 20:3n-3, 20:4n-3, 20:5n-3) families. For the first time, Δ5-unsaturated polymethylene-interrupted fatty acids were reported for ferns: sciadonic (5,11,14-20:3) and juniperonic (5,11,14,17-20:4) acids (up to 1.9% and 0.4%, respectively). Fatty acid profiles in fern fronds were unrelated to fern taxonomy, but affected by spore presence: fronds with sporangia/spores contained more 18:1n-9 and/or 18:2n-6. The absolute content of 20:4n-6 was found to be relatively constant for a species in different seasons. 20:5n-3 was a minor fatty acid (traces–5%) which accumulates during the vegetation period. Young fronds of the New Zealand ferns Phymatosorus pustulatus and Pteridium esculentum were enriched in 20:4n-6, while aged fronds of Cyathea dealbata had the highest level of 20:5n-3. The mature fronds of the Far Eastern ferns Phegopteris connectilis , Dryopteris expansa , and Athyrium sinense were also enriched in 20:5n-3. Image 1 • Fatty acid profiles of 23 fern species from New Zealand and Russia are presented. • This is the first report of Δ5-unsaturated polymethylene-interrupted acids in ferns. • The presence of spores significantly affects fatty acid profiles of fern fronds. • Fern species are investigated as sources of arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) possess multipotent properties, and their proper functionality is essential for further development of metabolic disorders. In the current study, we explored the impact of two n‐3 LC‐PUFAs (long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, DHA—docosahexaenoic; C22:6, and EPA—eicosapentaenoic; C20:5) on a specific profile of lipolytic‐related gene expressions in the in vitro‐differentiated subcutaneous and visceral ADSCs from rabbits. The subcutaneous and visceral ADSCs were obtained from 28‐day‐old New Zealand rabbits. The primary cells were cultured up to passage 4 and were induced for adipogenic differentiation. Thereafter, the differentiated cells were treated with 100 µg EPA or DHA for 48 hr. The total mRNA was isolated and target genes expression evaluated by real‐time RCR. The results demonstrated that treatment of rabbit ADSCs with n‐3 PUFAs significantly enhanced mRNA expression of Perilipin A, while the upregulation of leptin and Rab18 genes was seen mainly in ADSCs from visceral adipose tissue. Moreover, the EPA significantly enhanced PEDF (Pigment Derived Epithelium Factor) mRNA expression only in visceral cells. Collectively, the results suggest activation of an additional lipolysis pathway most evident in visceral cells. The data obtained in our study indicate that in vitro EPA up‐regulates the mRNA expression of the studied lipolysis‐associated genes stronger than DHA mainly in visceral rabbit ADSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homeoviscous adaptation (HVA) is a key cellular response by which fish protect their membranes against thermal stress. We investigated evolutionary HVA (long time scale) in Antarctic and non-Antarctic fish. Membrane lipid composition was determined for four Perciformes fish: two closely related Antarctic notothenioid species (Trematomus bernacchii and Pagothenia borchgrevinki); a diversified related notothenioid Antarctic icefish (Chionodraco hamatus); and a New Zealand species (Notolabrus celidotus). The membrane lipid compositions were consistent across the three Antarctic species and these were significantly different from that of the New Zealand species. Furthermore, acclimatory HVA (short time periods with seasonal changes) was investigated to determine whether stenothermal Antarctic fish, which evolved in the cold, stable environment of the Southern Ocean, have lost the acclimatory capacity to modulate their membrane saturation states, making them vulnerable to anthropogenic global warming. We compared liver membrane lipid composition in two closely related Antarctic fish species acclimated at 0 °C (control temperature), 4 °C for a period of 14 days in T. bernacchii and 28 days for P. borchgrevinki, and 6 °C for 7 days in both species. Thermal acclimation at 4 °C did not result in changed membrane saturation states in either Antarctic species. Despite this, membrane functions were not compromised, as indicated by declining serum osmolality, implying positive compensation by enhanced hypo-osmoregulation. Increasing the temperature to 6 °C did not change the membrane lipids of P. borchgrevinki. However, in T. bernacchii, thermal acclimation at 6 °C resulted in an increase of membrane saturated fatty acids and a decline in unsaturated fatty acids. This is the first study to show a homeoviscous response to higher temperatures in an Antarctic fish, although for only one of the two species examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homeoviscous adaptation (HVA) is a key cellular response by which fish protect their membranes against thermal stress. We investigated evolutionary HVA (long time scale) in Antarctic and non-Antarctic fish. Membrane lipid composition was determined for four Perciformes fish: two closely related Antarctic notothenioid species (Trematomus bernacchii and Pagothenia borchgrevinki); a diversified related notothenioid Antarctic icefish (Chionodraco hamatus); and a New Zealand species (Notolabrus celidotus). The membrane lipid compositions were consistent across the three Antarctic species and these were significantly different from that of the New Zealand species. Furthermore, acclimatory HVA (short time periods with seasonal changes) was investigated to determine whether stenothermal Antarctic fish, which evolved in the cold, stable environment of the Southern Ocean, have lost the acclimatory capacity to modulate their membrane saturation states, making them vulnerable to anthropogenic global warming. We compared liver membrane lipid composition in two closely related Antarctic fish species acclimated at 0 °C (control temperature), 4 °C for a period of 14 days in T. bernacchii and 28 days for P. borchgrevinki, and 6 °C for 7 days in both species. Thermal acclimation at 4 °C did not result in changed membrane saturation states in either Antarctic species. Despite this, membrane functions were not compromised, as indicated by declining serum osmolality, implying positive compensation by enhanced hypo-osmoregulation. Increasing the temperature to 6 °C did not change the membrane lipids of P. borchgrevinki. However, in T. bernacchii, thermal acclimation at 6 °C resulted in an increase of membrane saturated fatty acids and a decline in unsaturated fatty acids. This is the first study to show a homeoviscous response to higher temperatures in an Antarctic fish, although for only one of the two species examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of dietary supplementation with vitamin E, oregano, and prebiotic on fatty acids and oxidative profiles of rabbit meat (loin and hind leg) was evaluated. New Zealand white rabbits weaned at 30 days of age were fed with one of six diets until 80 days of age: standard diet including ω3 polyunsaturated fatty and conjugated linolenic acids sources (S) and five diets adding vitamin E (150 ppm, E), oregano water extract (2 g/kg feed diet, O), prebiotic (THEPAX® 1.5 g/kg feed diet, T), vitamin E plus prebiotic (TE), and oregano water extract plus prebiotic (TO), respectively. The lipid oxidative status (TBARS) showed lower values with respect to S, mainly when vitamin E was administered. In particular, all the experimental diets decreased TBARS values with respect to the control group in the loin, but no effect was found in the hind leg. In all feed samples, the amounts of fatty acid classes increased in the following order: polyunsaturated fatty acids > monounsaturated fatty acid > saturated fatty acid. The dietary supplementations did not affect the fatty acid composition of meat. The experimented diets compared to the control were not able to provide a selective increase of bioactive fatty acid in meat samples; however, the six nutritional strategies led to highly nutritional rabbit meat with an interesting value of the ω6/ω3 ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coconut oil is being heavily promoted as a healthy oil, with benefits that include support of heart health. To assess the merits of this claim, the literature on the effect of coconut consumption on cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in humans was reviewed. Twenty-one research papers were identified for inclusion in the review: 8 clinical trials and 13 observational studies. The majority examined the effect of coconut oil or coconut products on serum lipid profiles. Coconut oil generally raised total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to a greater extent than cis unsaturated plant oils, but to a lesser extent than butter. The effect of coconut consumption on the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was often not examined. Observational evidence suggests that consumption of coconut flesh or squeezed coconut in the context of traditional dietary patterns does not lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. However, due to large differences in dietary and lifestyle patterns, these findings cannot be applied to a typical Western diet. Overall, the weight of the evidence from intervention studies to date suggests that replacing coconut oil with cis unsaturated fats would alter blood lipid profiles in a manner consistent with a reduction in risk factors for cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health benefits of PUFA are well established. There is no valid tool or complete fatty acid database to assess PUFA intake in New Zealand (NZ). This study aimed to develop, validate, and test the reproducibility of a NZ-specific PUFA FFQ. A semiquantitative NZ PUFA FFQ was developed based on a validated Australian PUFA FFQ. The Australian fatty acid database was adapted to include NZ-specific data for major PUFA sources. Healthy participants from Auckland, NZ (n = 48) provided fasting blood samples for erythrocyte PUFA analysis, completed the NZ PUFA FFQ and a 3-d weighed food record (WFR), and repeated the NZ PUFA FFQ 3 mo later (n = 42). Relative validity was evaluated by assessing the triangular relationship among the NZ PUFA FFQ, WFR, and erythrocyte PUFA using the methods of triads [EPA, DHA, total omega-3 (n-3) long-chain (LC) PUFA only] and by comparing, correlating, cross-classifying into quintiles and assessing agreement using Bland-Altman plots of intakes between the NZ PUFA FFQ and WFR. Reproducibility was assessed by comparing and correlating intakes between repeat administrations of the NZ PUFA FFQ. The NZ PUFA FFQ effectively estimated EPA [ρQT = 0.72 (95% CI: 0.49, 0.89)1, DHA [ρQT = 0.72 (95% CI: 0.53, 0.95)1, and total (n-3) LCPUFA [ρQT = 0.68 (95% CI: 0.47, 0.89)1 intakes and was comparable with the WFR for other PUFA except docosapentaenoic acid. Repeated implementation of the NZ PUFA FFQ showed agreement for PUFA intakes. The NZ PUFA FFQ is a valid and reliable tool to measure PUFA intake in healthy NZ adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Analyses of zooplankton fatty acid (FA) composition in laboratory experiments and samples collected from lakes in New Zealand spanning a wide gradient of productivity were used to assess the extent to which FAs might infer their diet. We used the cladocerans, Daphnia and Ceriodaphnia, and the calanoid copepod, Boeckella, as test organisms, and monocultures of cryptophytes, chlorophytes and cyanobacteria as food. Based on reproductive success, cryptophytes were the highest food quality, chlorophytes were intermediate and cyanobacteria the poorest. 2. Several FA groups were highly correlated between zooplankton and their diets. They were monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and ω3 and ω6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) for cladocerans, and saturated fatty acids (SAFAs) and ω3 PUFAs for copepods. Several FAs varied significantly less in the zooplankton than in their monoculture diets, e.g. MUFAs in Daphnia, and ω3 and ω6 PUFAs in Ceriodaphnia, despite clear dietary dependency for these FAs. 3. Zooplankton collected from lakes in New Zealand had more eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) ( Daphnia), more highly unsaturated ω3 and ω6 FAs (C, C; Daphnia, Ceriodaphnia, Boeckella) and less ω3 C PUFAs ( Daphnia, Ceriodaphnia, Boeckella) and ω6 C PUFAs ( Daphnia, Ceriodaphnia) than measured in the same species reared on phytoplankton in the laboratory. 4. Analyses of FA composition of seston and freshwater zooplankton globally showed that, in general, zooplankton had a significantly higher proportion of arachidonic acid and EPA than seston, and copepods also had a higher percentage of docosahexaenoic acid than seston. 5. These results suggest that zooplankton selectively incorporate the most physiologically important FAs. This could be a consequence of preferential assimilation, selective feeding on more nutritious cells or locating and feeding within higher food quality food patches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Flaxseed oils currently sold on the worldwide market are not governed by specific standards or specifications. In this study, the physicochemical and quality characteristics of seven cold-pressed flaxseed oils sold in New Zealand have been analyzed. General regulations and specification for edible vegetable oils and cold-pressed oils were used as a guide. Fatty acid composition, tocopherol composition, moisture and volatile matter content, free fatty acids, chlorophyll pigments, total phenolic acids, total flavanoids, acid value, unsaponifiable matter, peroxide value, conjugated dienoic acids, p-anisidine value and specific extinction in the ultraviolet spectrum of the flaxseed oils were measured. Color and dielectric measurement of the flaxseed oils were also estimated using a spectrocolorimeter and a food oil sensor, respectively. The physicochemical characteristics of the flaxseed oils were found to be quite similar with only a few significant variations. Four out of the seven flaxseed oils passed all the quality tests conducted in this study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) samples were collected during the 1994 and 1995 harvest from ten different cultivars of trees grown in a replicated trial in an experimental orchard at Lincoln University, New Zealand. Two US commercial cultivars (Tehama and Vina), three European commercial cultivars (Esterhazy, 139, G120) and five New Zealand selections (Rex, Dublin's Glory, Meyric, McKinster, Stanley) were evaluated. Total oil was extracted using a cold press and individual fatty acids were analysed by GLC. The total oil content of the nuts ranged from 62.4 to 68.7%. The oleic acid content of the oils ranged from 14.3 to 26.1% of the total fatty acids, while the linoleic acid content ranged from 49.3 to 62.3% and the linolenic contents from 8.0 to 13.8%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loin sections (m. Longissimus lumborum) were collected at slaughter from forty-eight lamb carcasses to evaluate consumer-liking scores of six types of typical New Zealand commercial lamb and to understand the possible underlying reasons for those ratings. A consumer panel (n = 160) evaluated tenderness, juiciness, flavor liking, and overall liking of the different types of lamb loins. Consumer scores differed among the types of lamb meat for all the evaluated attributes (p < 0.05). Further segmentation based on overall liking scores showed two consumer clusters with distinct ratings. Correlation and external preference map analyses indicated that one consumer cluster (n = 75) liked lamb types that had lower total lipid content, a lower proportion of branched-chain fatty acids, oleic and heptadecanoic acids; and a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids and volatile compounds (green and fruity descriptors). Consumer liking of the other segment (n = 85) was less influenced by fatty acids and volatiles, except hexanoic, heptanoic and octanoic acids (rancid, fatty, and sweaty descriptors). Thus, the fatty acid profile and the volatile compounds derived from their oxidation upon cooking seem to be a stronger driver of consumer liking of lamb for some consumers than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish (n = 281) of six species, caught in New Zealand waters, were analysed for total mercury (t-Hg), methylmercury (MeHg) and the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Mean t-Hg and MeHg concentrations for the six species were in the range 0.06–0.53 mg/kg and 0.06–0.46 mg/kg, respectively. The mean proportion of t-Hg present as MeHg for the six species considered was in the range 83–93%. Positive associations were observed between t-Hg and MeHg content of fish and measures of fish size (length, weight), although the strength of the associations was species dependent. The mean EPA + DHA content of the six fish species varied in the range 2.0–20.5 mg/g. Two approaches were trialled to compare the risks, due to MeHg, and the benefits, due to EPA and DHA, from consumption of the six fish species. Both approaches identify that for these six fish species the benefits of normal patterns of fish consumption on offspring IQ largely outweigh the risks from MeHg. • Mercury content of fish species was dependent on the fish species and size. • Mercury was mostly present in the form of methylmercury. • Fish species had positive benefit-risk ratios for consumption up to 7 servings/week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal production factors can affect the fatty acid and volatile profile of lamb meat. The fatty acid and volatile composition of the M. longissimus thoracis was evaluated from 150 lambs from 10 groups of commercial lambs that differed in age, sex, diet and breed, from three farms, which represent typical forage lamb production systems in New Zealand. The meat from 4-month-old composite lambs slaughtered at weaning had a similar polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio compared to 6- to 8-month-old composite lambs, but a greater ratio than that of 12-month-old Merino lambs (p < 0.05), with all ratios being lower than the recommended ≥0.45. All lamb production systems produced meat with an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio below 1.5, well below the recommended ratio ≤ 4.0. Meat from 4-month-old lambs had higher C12:0, C14:0 and C16:0 and lower C18:0, reflecting the composition of the milk diet, resulting in higher atherogenic index than meat from other animal groups, while meat from 12-month-old Merino lambs, with lower content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, showed higher thrombogenic index. Meat from lambs processed at weaning contained the greatest concentration of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, which would qualify as a 'source' or 'good source' of these target fatty acids based on the Commission of Regulation of the European Union or the Food Standards Australia New Zealand guidelines, respectively. Volatiles were extracted from the headspace of raw lean meat and 36 volatile compounds were identified. The abundance of carbon disulphide, isododecane, heptanal, 2,5-hexanediol and 3-octanone and pentanoic, octanoic, nonanoic and heptanoic acids was similar between all groups of lambs. Meat from 12-month-old Merino lambs had low abundance of acetic, propanoic, butanoic and hexanoic acids, and hexanal, octanal and dimethyl sulphide. For 6- to 8-month-old composite lambs, hexanal, octanal and nonanal were present at higher relative abundance in meat from lambs that grazed on chicory than perennial ryegrass. The significant differences in the fatty acid and volatile profiles in meat from 12-month-old Merino lambs compared with lambs slaughtered at weaning or further grazed on red clover, chicory or mixed pasture may result in distinctive nutritional value and lamb flavour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The gene that encodes myostatin influences more than one trait, and its expression has been observed in skeletal muscle, as well as the mammary gland. In this study, association analysis revealed that variation in the bovine myostatin gene affects milk fatty acid composition, raising the possibility that this genetic variation may be utilized to increase the amount of unsaturated fatty acid and decrease the amount of saturated fatty acid in milk. The myostatin gene (MSTN), which encodes the protein myostatin, is pleiotropic, and its expression has been associated with both increased and decreased adipogenesis and increased skeletal muscle mass in animals. In this study, the polymerase chain reaction, coupled with single strand conformation polymorphism analysis, was utilized to reveal nucleotide sequence variation in bovine MSTN in 410 New Zealand (NZ) Holstein-Friesian × Jersey (HF × J)-cross cows. These cows ranged from 3 to 9 years of age and over the time studied, produced an average 22.53 ± 2.18 L of milk per day, with an average milk fat content of 4.94 ± 0.17% and average milk protein content of 4.03 ± 0.10%. Analysis of a 406-bp amplicon from the intron 1 region, revealed five nucleotide sequence variants (A–E) that contained seven nucleotide substitutions. Using general linear mixed-effect model analyses the AD genotype was associated with reduced C10:0, C12:0, and C12:1 levels when compared to levels in cows with the AA genotype. These associations in NZ HF × J cross cows are novel, and they suggest that this variation in bovine MSTN could be explored for increasing the amount of milk unsaturated fatty acid and decreasing the amount of saturated fatty acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rigid cell walls of microalgae lower the digestibility and nutrient bioavailability in carnivorous fish. Extrusion is a thermo-mechanical process and a scalable technology that may break cell walls and improves nutrient utilization. It can be hypothesized that certain feed additives may further improve microalgae nutrient digestibility and feed utilization by fish. The aim of the current study was to investigate i) the effect of incorporation of 10% pre-extruded Nannochloropsis oceanica on nutrient digestibility, growth and feed utilization of Atlantic salmon post smolts, and ii) the ability of feed additives in improving the feed utilization. Four low fish meal feeds were formulated; a control without the microalga N. oceanica (CO), a feed containing 10% of the pre-extruded microalga (NC), and two feeds containing 10% of the pre-extruded microalga and supplemented with either 0.06% Digestarom® (ND) or 1% ZEOFeed (NZ). Fish (initial average weight of 227.3 ± 3.4 g) in 5 replicate tanks of each of the study groups were fed one of the experimental feeds for 68 days. The apparent digestibility of dry matter in the NC and NZ groups were significantly higher compared to the control group (CO). The digestibility of lipid was significantly lower, and digestibility of ash was higher in the alga-fed groups (NC, ND and NZ) compared to the control group (CO). The incorporation of 10% pre-extruded N. oceanica in plant-based commercial-like feeds did not affect the growth, feed utilization and whole body proximate composition of salmon. No effects of the feed additives were observed on growth, feed utilization and histomorphology of distal intestine of salmon, but cell proliferation (PCNA) was higher for fish fed the alga alone as well as the alga-ZEOfeed combination. There were no differences in polyunsaturated fatty acids in whole body of fish fed the different feeds. It is noteworthy that whole-body EPA + DHA levels of fish fed the algae feeds were maintained at the same levels as fish fed the control feed that contained 50% more fish meal and 10% more fish oil. • Extrusion was used as pre-processing to improve utilization of Nannochloropsis oceania in plant-based feeds • Digestibility of DM and ash was improved with inclusion of microalgae in plant-based feeds. • Lipid digestibility was reduced in feeds with 10% of microalgae in the feed. • Feed additives Digestarom® and ZEOfeed did not improve utilization of microalgae incorporated feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]